BOISE, Idaho — Law enforcement and transportation officials are urging Gem State drivers to use caution as Idaho approaches the 100 Deadliest Days, a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Idaho State Police on Friday said a spike in dangerous driving and serious crashes is typically seen during the summer stretch, as traffic, temperatures and outdoor recreation increases.
The Idaho Transportation Department reported 7,430 crashes resulting in 79 deaths during last year's 100 Deadliest Days. The graphic included below shows deadly crashes by month in Idaho between 2018 and 2022.
"People aren't replaceable. These crashes devastate our communities and the families involved," said Colonel Kedrick Wills, director of Idaho State Police. "I urge everyone to drive responsibly, stay focused, and prioritize safety."
Police also are encouraging parents to talk to teen drivers about good behavior and safe habits behind the wheel. More than 7,000 people died nationwide in teen-related crashes in the summer months between 2010 and 2019, according to ISP.
Idaho State Police and other law enforcement agencies across the state will join the Idaho Office of Highway Safety (OHS) and its partners during the 2024 summer to promote safe driving. Police plan to target impaired drivers and aggressive driving.
"Over Memorial Day Weekend, troopers will strictly enforce impaired driving laws, whether buzzed, drunk, or high," ISP said in a news release. "Drivers are strongly encouraged to plan for a sober ride before festivities begin. If you spot an impaired driver, safely pull over and dial *ISP (*477)."
Safety tips from police include wearing a seatbelt, avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits, maintaining safe distances and never driving impaired. For more about the 100 Deadliest Days from Idaho State Police, click here.
“We call this period the 100 Deadliest Days, but it would be great to be proven wrong. Make it safer out there for yourself and others by slowing down, putting down distractions, buckling up, and planning a sober ride home,” OHS program manager Josephine Middleton said.
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