Traffic Unit

To address traffic issues, the department uses a three-pronged approach--termed "The Three Es"-- Engineering, Education, and Enforcement, to address traffic safety issues.

  • The Police Department works with the Engineering Division of Elmhurst Public Works to analyze and evaluate traffic issues and traffic safety.
  • Educational programs are designed to build awareness among motorists, promoting traffic safety. Speed Monitoring Awareness Radar Trailers (S.M.A.R.T.) are currently being used to make drivers more aware of their speed while traveling in Elmhurst.
  • The entire police force is trained to Enforce traffic safety laws as a part of their regular duties. In addition, the department has a Traffic Unit consisting of officers working special enforcement details paid for by grants from the IL Dept. of Transportation. The Traffic Unit monitors streets and intersections with high crash frequencies and enforces truck weight limits, routes, and seatbelt and DUI laws.
Speed Kills

Many people think the worst that can happen to them is receiving a ticket, but speeding can kill or disable you or a loved one. We all need to make a conscious effort to be good citizens and safe drivers by staying within posted speed limits, wearing seat belts at all times, watching out for pedestrians, and being courteous to other drivers.
Slow down and keep our neighborhoods and streets safe.

Speed Facts

  • On average 13,000 Americans are killed every year in speed related crashes
  • 30% of all fatal crashes involved speeding
  • Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for young drivers
  • Of drivers under 21 involved in fatal crashes, 38% of the males and 24% of the females were speeding
  • The economic cost of speed-related crashes in the United States is estimated to be more than $29 billion annually
  • The minimum cost of a speeding ticket is $75 (more than 98% of speeders are found guilty in court)
Did You Know?
  • Elmhurst passed an ordinance reducing the speed limit on all residential streets to 25 mph
  • On average, the Elmhurst Police Department handles a total of 2,500 traffic accidents per year
  • Speed is a contributing factor in 31% of all crashes in the U.S.
  • A significant number of speeders in Elmhurst actually live in Elmhurst