Illinois Authorities Urge Safe Super Bowl Weekend

Increased patrols and enforcement to prevent impaired driving and ensure seat belt use

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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As Super Bowl weekend begins, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Illinois State Police (ISP) are collaborating with local law enforcement agencies across the state to emphasize the importance of safe driving. The joint campaign, 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' and 'Click It or Ticket,' will run through the early morning hours of Monday, February 9. The initiative aims to prevent impaired driving and ensure all motorists are buckled up.

Why it matters

Impaired driving is a major concern during major events like the Super Bowl, when celebrations often involve alcohol or cannabis. Authorities are taking proactive steps to keep roads safe and prevent tragedies.

The details

Increased patrols and traffic safety enforcement will be visible throughout the state during the campaign period. The Lombard Police Department announced additional patrols from Friday, February 6 through the early morning hours of Monday, February 9. The Elmwood Park Police Department also reminded residents to not let friends drive impaired and to ensure all guests have a safe ride home if hosting a Super Bowl party.

  • The campaign will run from Friday, February 6 through 6 a.m. Monday, February 9.
  • Additional patrols will be conducted in Lombard from Friday, February 6 through the early morning hours of Monday, February 9.

The players

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)

The state transportation agency collaborating with law enforcement on the safety campaign.

Illinois State Police (ISP)

The state police force partnering with IDOT and local agencies on the initiative.

Lombard Police Department

A local law enforcement agency that will have additional patrols during the campaign period.

Elmwood Park Police Department

A local police department reminding residents to plan for safe rides home from Super Bowl parties.

Stephane B. Seck-Birhame

IDOT's bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering.

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What they’re saying

“Before the game begins, designate a driver or make other arrangements for a safe, sober ride so that you, your passengers and everyone on our roads can return home safely. Driving impaired is the worst decision you can make. It's also 100% avoidable.”

— Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT's bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering (newsdirectory3.com)

“Even one drink or hit can impair judgment. You should never put yourself, or others, at risk with the choice to drive impaired.”

— Andrew Hock, Elmwood Park Police Department Chief (newsdirectory3.com)

“If you drink, don't drive, and make sure to buckle up, otherwise you could face a penalty flag that could cost you the game.”

— Chris Owen, Illinois State Police Division of Patrol Colonel (newsdirectory3.com)

What’s next

The Lombard Police Department announced additional patrols will be conducted from Friday, February 6 through the early morning hours of Monday, February 9.

The takeaway

This safety campaign highlights the importance of planning ahead and making responsible choices during major events like the Super Bowl, when celebrations often involve alcohol or cannabis. By designating sober drivers, utilizing public transportation or ride-sharing, and ensuring all passengers are buckled up, Illinois residents can help keep roads safe and prevent impaired driving tragedies.