Chicago-area police to crack down on a common violation often seen on expressways

The Cook County Sheriff’s office is cracking down on a common infraction for drivers on Chicago-area expressways.

While the department warned it will be ramping up efforts to stop speeding, driving under the influence, texting while driving and other violations, there’s one thing they’ll be looking for specifically.

“One infraction that we will be especially vigilant about is illegal use of the shoulder to bypass slower traffic,” the department said in a video released Tuesday.

According to authorities, the move is “dangerous” and “can catch other drivers by surprise,” leading to what they said are often “devastating accidents.”

The department noted it would be doing countywide patrols focused on speeding as well from Sept. 25-30. The patrols are buoyed by a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

“Speeding contributed to about one-third of traffic fatalities in the state over the last decade,” the sheriff’s office said.

Earlier this year, Illinois State Police also announced similar plans to crack down on dangerous driving habits, particularly distracted driving.

The department announced plans in April to increase patrols for drivers texting while driving.

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