State police plan traffic enforcement patrols in November

Illinois State Police District 22 plans to conduct sTEP (special Traffic Enforcement Patrols) during November in the southernmost seven counties in Illinois.  

 The district has its headquarters at Ullin. Capt. Harry Masse is commander of District 22.

Masse said troopers will concentrate on speeding, failure to use occupant restraints and other driving offenses as part of their enforcement efforts. 

Special Traffic Enforcement Patrols involve a combination of increased enforcement and public information designed to raise public awareness and compliance to all traffic laws. 

In 2005, speeding was a contributing factor in 30 percent of all fatal crashes nationwide. 

In Illinois, speed-related crashes accounted for 39 percent of all traffic fatalities. 

Safety belt enforcement zones may also be used during the sTEP program. 

“Troopers will enforce the primary safety belt law to ensure drivers and their passengers are buckled up,” Masse said.

“Every hour someone dies in America simply because he or she is not wearing a safety belt.  Statistics show that half of all people killed in traffic crashes are not properly buckled up. 

“You can save your life by driving safely and simply buckling up.”