ILCC Marks National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Designate a Driver this December

Submitted by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission

Dec 26, 2025 8:15 AM

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SPRINGFIELD – December has arrived with its usual charm, weather, and holiday zeal. Now is the time for gatherings, celebrations, meals and conversations, and a reminder to plan ahead throughout the winter season.

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December is recognized as “National Impaired Driving Prevention Month,” an awareness campaign for the dangers of driving while under the influence of alcohol and other drugs.

During the holiday season, alcohol consumption often increases which can quickly lead to an increase in impaired driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports: “During the 2019-2023 December months, there were 4,931 people killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes. In December 2023 alone, 1,038 people died in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes.”

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“This is a serious public safety issue, which is why December includes increased enforcement patrols and sobriety checkpoints. Make responsible choices to protect yourself, your loved ones, and fellow Illinoisians,” said Illinois Liquor Control Commission Executive Director, Lisa Gardner.

The Illinois Liquor Control Commission urges you to plan ahead and establish safe travel before drinking. A few helpful tips:

Schedule a rideshare trip, use public transportation, or assign a designated driver in advance.
If you decide to drink, pace yourself and drink plenty of water in-between alcoholic drinks.
Consider non-alcoholic drinks as a safe alternative

About the Illinois Liquor Control Commission

The Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Illinois through careful control and regulation of the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic liquors and through the development of strategies to reduce youth access to alcohol products and the provision of training and education on responsible beverage service.

To learn more about the ILCC and its divisions, visit www.ILCC.Illinois.gov. To submit a tip or complaint to the ILCC’s Enforcement Division, click here.

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