October 23, 2025

Impaired driving is scary: The Hanover Park Police Department is cracking down on drunk, drugged driving

This fall and Halloween, remember, It’s Not a Game.

Hanover Park, IL – The Hanover Park Police Department urges motorists to commit to sober driving, buckling up, and following traffic laws this Halloween, as children and their families haunt their neighborhoods after dark for candy and spooky fun. If you're planning to partake in Halloween festivities, make sure you have a safe, sober ride home, and remember, “It’s Not a Game”.

“Alcohol and cannabis impair your ability to drive safely,” said Deputy Chief Victor DiVito. “That’s why it’s crucial to plan how you’ll get home before you head out, whether you’ve been drinking or using any substance. And don’t forget to wear your seat belt every trip, every time. Planning ahead, driving sober, and buckling up will help keep you and others safe.”

Driving while impaired is never acceptable. Remember: DUIs are not limited to alcohol-related offenses. Driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or drugs is illegal – period. While cannabis may be legal for adults, if you drive high, you’ll still get a DUI. Additionally, all vehicle occupants must wear their seat belts or risk a ticket.

The Hanover Park Police encourages everyone to follow these simple tips to keep our roads safe this Halloween:

• Plan a safe way to get home before attending any party.
• Designate a sober driver, take public transportation, use a ride-sharing service, or call a sober friend or family member for a ride.
• Walking while impaired can be just as dangerous as driving. Make sure you have a sober friend to walk you home if needed.
• Always wear your seat belt. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers and crashes. 
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact local law enforcement as soon as it’s safe to do so.
• If you see someone who is impaired and about to drive, take their keys and help them find a safe way home.

The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns, along with increased traffic enforcement, are funded by federal highway safety grants administered by IDOT. These efforts are supported by the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies across the state. The campaigns are reinforced by IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” initiative spotlighting safe driving and highway safety across Illinois.

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