The Illinois State Police will be increasing seat belt and drunk driving patrols during the month of April, the department announced.

Light at a police station / Photo by Roger Starkey

The State Police will be conducting saturation patrols that focus on traffic violations and related compliance with safety belt and child safety seat laws, as well as roadside safety checks designed to encourage motorists to refrain from drinking and driving.

Across the country, an average of one alcohol-related traffic death occurs every 45 minutes.   Alcohol and drug impairment are significant factors in over 40 percent of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in Illinois, the State Police said.

Safety belt enforcement zones will also be set up to ensure drivers and passengers are using their seat belts. Beginning Jan. 1, 2012, Illinois law requires all vehicle passengers (front and back) to be buckled up.

Safety belts are one of the most effective safety devices in vehicles today, estimated to save over 16,000 lives each year, the State Police said.