(Photo By Flickr User raymondclarkeimages)

Illinois State Police, Illinois Department of Transportation, and law enforcement agencies are teaming up throughout the state to prevent alcohol and drug related crashes and fatalities over the July 4th holiday.

According to provisional IDOT data, four people died in motor vehicle crashes in Illinois last year from 6pm July 3rd, through 11:59pm July 4th. Half of those fatalities involved a driver who tested positive for alcohol.

Through July 8th, State and local law enforcement will step up efforts to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities through roadside safety checks, impaired driving patrols and seat-belt enforcement zones.

In a statement, state police offer tips to help ensure you have a safe holiday:

• Before the festivities start, make a plan to get a sober ride home.
• Ask a sober friend or family member for a ride, call a cab, take public transportation, use a ride-sharing service or stay where you are until you’re sober.
• Don’t let others with you drive impaired.
• Promptly report impaired drivers to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.
• Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears a seat belt. It is your best defense in a crash.