The Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety has launched a statewide campaign against impaired driving, starting December 10 and continuing through January 2. The initiative is in partnership with law enforcement agencies across Idaho to address the increased risk of impaired driving crashes during the holiday season.
Extra patrols will be deployed on Idaho roads to identify and stop impaired drivers, aiming to protect families traveling for the holidays. Josephine Middleton, Highway Safety Manager with OHS, stated, “Impaired driving fatality crashes decreased 18% in Idaho in 2024. We are partnering with forty-nine local agencies who are working overtime to get impaired drivers off the road throughout this holiday season. The best way to avoid tragedy is to plan for a sober ride home and remember to thank the designated drivers who make sure everyone gets there safely.”
Despite recent improvements, impaired driving continues to be a major factor in traffic fatalities in Idaho. In 2024, there were 86 deaths from impaired driving crashes, representing over one-third of all traffic fatalities in the state.
The Office of Highway Safety encourages drivers to use sober transportation options such as designated drivers, rideshares, or taxis; never allow friends to drive while impaired; and plan ahead before consuming alcohol.
The increased enforcement aims not only for visibility but also for safety. As stated by OHS, “every Idahoan deserves to make it home safely.”
Further information about the Office of Highway Safety’s efforts can be found at shift-idaho.org.