Traffic deaths on Idaho roadways are at 15 year high

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - Idaho State Police troopers are joining law enforcement agencies throughout the state this holiday with increased patrols to remove DUI drivers from Idaho roadways.

The effort comes at a time when many celebrations often include alcohol and traffic fatalities across Idaho are at a 15-year high, according to the Idaho Transportation Department Office of Highway Safety.

"Putting others at risk with dangerous driving behavior is simply not acceptable. ISP Troopers join our partner agencies and our communities in having zero tolerance for impaired driving," said Sgt. Justin Scotch of the Idaho State Police District 1 DUI Team based in Coeur d'Alene. "When holiday celebrations include alcohol, we need folks to think and plan ahead for a safe, sober ride home. A trip with a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver is a lot better than a trip to jail."

Idaho State Police DUI efforts will increase statewide beginning Friday, December 17, and through New Year's Eve weekend. DUI education and enforcement is intended to keep families safe and whole every day, including through this holiday season.

Traffic fatalities in Idaho are at a 15-year high. So far this year, ITD OHS reports at least 254 people have been killed in traffic crashes. That compares to 195 traffic fatalities through this date last year, and the most fatalities in a single year since 2006.

Between 2016 and 2020, 36% of all fatal crashes in Idaho were related to impaired driving, according to the ITD OHS.

In 2020, 43% of all fatalities were the result of an impaired driving crash in Idaho, and only 29% of the vehicle occupants killed in those crashes were wearing a seat belt. 

Between January 1, and December 15, 2021, Troopers with the Idaho State Police have located and charged 1,453 drivers with impaired driving-related criminal offenses.

ISP troopers appreciate the support of partner agencies and are exceptionally grateful for community support, including volunteers from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

"We are aware that behind every fatal crash is a family who will forever feel broken by the loss of a loved one. As crash investigators, we talk with those families and many volunteers with MADD are families who continue to feel those losses," said Sgt. Curt Sproat of the Idaho State Police District 3 DUI Team based in Meridian. "Together as a community, we need to make safe, sober driving the standard in this great state."

What can you do?

• Talk with friends and family about the importance of driving sober and, as a passenger, never getting into a vehicle with a driver who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Plan your safe ride home before alcohol clouds your judgment;
• Choose a non-drinking friend as a designated driver;
• Arrange for a ride share service or taxi.
• If you're hosting a party where alcohol will be served, serve non-alcoholic beverage options.
• If someone you know is about to drink and drive, take the keys away and help with arrangements to get them a safe ride.
• Always wear your seat belt - it's your best defense against impaired drivers.
• If you see what could be an impaired driver on the road, call *477(*ISP) or call 911. Your actions could save a life.

From now through Jan. 1, Denny's Wrecker Service, Inc. is offering free towing for people in the Pocatello/Chubbuck area who have had too much to drink and are unsure of their ability to drive safely. You can read more HERE.