MARION - State police officials have a message for drivers this holiday weekend: Simply put, don't drink and drive.

Capt. Mike Irwin also advised motorists to buckle up, not drive while sleep-deprived and to avoid drugs that could affect performance behind the wheel.

The state police commander said troopers "just want to make sure people make good decisions."

To that end, though, special patrols will be out this weekend.

"We will have expansion patrols, safety checks and roadside safety checks," he said. "We just don't want people to make these tragic mistakes."

About 300 people have been cited with driving under the influence this year, but Irwin said that may be a sign of progress.

"I think there are actually fewer DUI drivers because of the education," he said. "I think people are making better decisions. My theory is this: If you think you might be drunk or buzzed then don't risk it."

Irwin said many of his close, personal friends are construction workers. He said they've seen enough tragedy to know the rule and put it in practice. If they have a few drinks, they don't drive.

"They call a cab or something, and these are big guys," he said. "That needs to be everyone's rule."

Irwin said it should be a group effort to make sure friends don't allow friends to drive impaired. Take the keys and call a cab, he advised.

David Phelps of Illinois Department of Transportation said it is important for Illinois drivers to remember road crews who conduct work at night. People who race through work zones endanger not only their own lives, but the lives of workers and others.

tara.fasol@thesouthern.com

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