BOISE – As the year comes to a close and Idahoans prepare for New Year’s Eve festivities, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is issuing a reminder for individuals to prioritize a sober ride home to ensure a safe start to 2024. The state has witnessed a concerning trend in road fatalities, with 2023 poised to become one of the deadliest years on Idaho roads in the last two decades.
The year-to-date statistics reveal a grim reality, as 275* lives have been lost on Idaho roads, surpassing last year’s total by an alarming 60 deaths. Notably, 51% of the total fatalities resulting from traffic crashes last year were linked to impaired driving.
In response to this sobering trend, the ITD’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) is joining forces with over 50 law enforcement agencies across Idaho this weekend to collaborate on efforts to keep roads safe from impaired drivers.
While law enforcement remains vigilant in identifying and addressing drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol, the ITD encourages individuals to play an active role in preventing impaired driving crashes. Simple yet effective measures include designating a sober driver or utilizing a ride service, maintaining alcohol-free status if serving as the designated driver, intervening if someone plans to drink and drive by taking away their keys and arranging a safe ride, and consistently using seat belts as a crucial safety measure.
“Have an epic last night of 2023, and then get a sober ride home so you can have an amazing 2024 as well,” emphasized Highway Safety Manager Josephine Middleton.
*Note: Preliminary data is subject to change.
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