Willis Encourages Residents to Avoid Driving Under the Influence on New Year’s Eve

ADDISON, Ill. – With many looking forward to New Year’s Eve celebrations, state Rep. Kathleen Willis, D-Addison, is reminding residents to be careful and to not drive while intoxicated.

“I am encouraging residents to make sure they have a plan for travel if they are going to go out for New Year’s Eve,” Willis said. “Unfortunately, too many people out there decide to drive drunk or while under the influence after the holiday and put themselves and others at risk.”

According to the 2017 Illinois DUI Handbook, 268 people were killed in alcohol related crashes in 2015. Additionally, 91% of people who were arrested for drunk driving lost their driving privileges, which can cause major financial issues for the person in question. Local law enforcement and the Illinois State Police will be out in force on New Year’s Eve to enforce traffic laws and prevent impaired driving.

“If you plan on driving, assign a designated driver,” Willis said. “If you have had a few too many, please consider taking a rideshare or taxi. The cost of that will be much less than if you decide to drink and drive.”

Willis is serving her third term in the Illinois General Assembly as State Representative of the 77th District, which includes O’Hare Airport and portions of Addison, Bellwood, Bensenville, Franklin Park, Maywood, Melrose Park, Northlake, Stone Park and Wood Dale.