As students have returned to NIU’s campus, there has been an increase in reported traffic violations. 

The first week of classes had the same number of tickets as the two weeks before classes combined, according to the NIU Police Department’s daily crime log.

To keep NIU staff, students, faculty and DeKalb residents safe, drivers need to wear their seatbelts, pay attention to their surroundings and have insurance. 

The Illinois Department of Transport has multiple programs that aim to enhance seatbelt usage. By practicing basic safety, NIU students can avoid receiving tickets. 

Local police departments are increasingly honing in on the program. As students have returned to campus, an increase in seatbelt violations has occurred. 

Additional reports of failing to stop for stop signs, running red lights and failing to yield to pedestrians are also proving to be issues for drivers, pedestrians and the police. 

While the causes of these violations cannot be determined, it is a good time to remind drivers that texting while driving is illegal. 

People are unable to multitask, and instead, switch their focus between tasks, yielding incomplete attention. Texting and driving is no different; by doing both, you are doing neither effectively. 

Either pull off and stop to send a message or wait until you’ve reached your destination. 

Insurance is a requirement for drivers. While classes, extracurriculars and social events can be overwhelming, drivers need to make sure they are insured. 

If there is an accident and an uninsured driver is found at fault, they could be sued for more than what insurance would cost. By having insurance, drivers protect themselves from monetary penalties if an accident were to occur. 

While these seem like simple rules of the road, the basics are basics for a reason. 

Good driving practice helps NIU’s campus and community be a safer place for everyone.