OAK LAWN, IL — A recent Memorial Day traffic enforcement campaign by the Oak Lawn Police Department has resulted in a notable drop in seat belt citations, according to data released following the conclusion of the Click It or Ticket initiative.
The campaign, which ran from May 16 to May 27, 2025, was part of a statewide effort aimed at increasing driver and passenger seat belt use across Illinois. The local effort was made possible by federal highway safety funding administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
The program was also accompanied by outreach efforts, including social media reminders, message boards on roadways, and collaborative announcements with schools and community centers encouraging everyone to buckle up.
Citations Down, But Focus Remains on Safety
During the 12-day enforcement window:
- 227 seat belt citations were issued
- 3 child car seat violations were recorded
- 1 DUI arrest was made
- 2 drivers cited for suspended/revoked licenses
- 1 uninsured motorist violation noted
- 23 other traffic citations were issued for violations such as faulty equipment and expired registrations
In total, 257 citations were issued during this year’s campaign.
That figure represents a 31% decrease in seat belt violations from the same period last year, when officers wrote 328 citations. The drop suggests improved compliance among drivers in the Oak Lawn area.
Traffic Division Officer Melissa Grant noted, “Even one life lost due to lack of seat belt use is too many. These numbers show improvement, but they also remind us there’s work to do.”
Community Safety and the Road Ahead
Despite the decline, police say the work is far from over. Traffic safety officers will continue to focus on impaired driving, child safety restraints, and distracted driving year-round.
The department also urges parents and guardians to regularly check car seat installations and ensure all passengers are buckled up — especially during holiday weekends when traffic volume spikes.
Residents are also reminded to participate in public feedback sessions that the Oak Lawn Police Department will be hosting this summer. These forums aim to collect community input on what additional steps can be taken to improve roadway safety.
Do you think increased holiday enforcement helps change driver behavior? Should campaigns like this expand to cover more violations? Share your views in the comments below.
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