The Illinois State Police will conduct night enforcement patrols throughout the month of December in Madison and St. Clair counties.

Captain Brad Parsons, District 11 Commander said the reason for the patrols is to try to take unsafe drivers off the road during the holiday season. Motorists driving under the influence, operating their vehicles with open alcoholic drinks and driving without seat belts are top targets.

Alcohol and drug impairment is a significant factor in more than 40 percent of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in Illinois, according to Parsons.

The special patrols are funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.