Area law enforcement groups are urging motorists to drive safe this holiday weekend. Agencies across Illinois are participating in a crackdown on drunk driving and seat-belt violations.  John Gomoll is with the Illinois Department of Transportation. He says drunk driving comes with significant consequences.

"Just one DUI can put you in jail for up to one year, require 25 hours of community service and cost up to $2,500 in fines alone," says Gomoll.

Gomoll says driving under the influence also means higher insurance premiums, and attorney fees. I-DOT says 13 people died in motor vehicle crashes during last year’s Fourth of July weekend. Nine of them were alcohol related. Gomoll says law enforcement will be conducting hundreds of roadside safety checks, seat-belt enforcement zones, and other patrols with most taking place at night. The increased patrols will last through July fourth.