100 deadliest days of summer driving, state patrol getting ready

Memorial Day marks the beginning of the “100 deadliest days” on Idaho roads. It is the time of year when there are more deaths and serious injuries because of dangerous driving behaviors.

Idaho State Police is partnering with the Idaho Transportation Department to stop impaired driving. The ITD is providing grant funds that will allow law enforcement agencies to pay for extra patrols dedicated to traffic law enforcement. But law enforcement will also be looking for all hazardous driving behaviors — not just drunk driving.

“We’re looking for everything that’s out there from speeders, people not signaling correctly and letting the other drivers on the roadway know what they’re planning on doing, to impaired drivers. Anything and everything we can do to keep the people on the road safe,” Sgt. Tim Hopkins with the Idaho State Police said.

You can easily avoid becoming a DUI statistic this holiday weekend if you plan ahead.

Plan not to drink and drive before you start having a good time. Designate a sober driver or plan to call a taxi service. Watch your friends and do not let them drive impaired. Report drunk drivers to 911 or call *ISP (*4-7-7). Wear your seat belt at all times — even if you are just going around the corner.