Idaho State Police news release - traffic fatalities in Idaho are on track to reach record numbers

We are now in the second week of what is known as the "100 Deadliest Days of Driving," the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year. In 2017, 90 people died on Idaho's roadways during that timeframe. Since May 25th of this year, Idaho State Police troopers have already investigated 9 crashes that resulted in fatalities - to include three motorcycle fatality crashes - throughout our state. Unfortunately, it's clear we're trending toward a record number of fatality crashes this summer.

"With the recent spike in fatal crashes, I want to take this opportunity to implore Idahoans to be extra cautious while on our roadways this summer," said Colonel Kedrick Wills, ISP director. "It's easier than ever to become distracted and to lose focus on what matters while driving, which is to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road - and to remain sober and unimpaired. It only takes a moment to lose focus and to end up in a potentially fatal crash. Our hearts go out to the family members who are grieving the recent loss of their loved ones and also to the first responders who are always there; it never gets easier to work the scene of a fatal crash, especially when the victims include children."

Here are some reminders:
- Buckle up - it's the best defense if you're in a crash
- Slow down, be patient. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going.
- Drive sober! Impaired driving is a leading cause of accidents and resulting injuries and deaths on our roadways. Law enforcement will be watching closely this summer for signs of impaired driving.
- Just drive. Put down your phone and other distractions such as food.
- Give yourself some distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Use the three-second rule.
- Promptly report suspected impaired drivers and other hazardous drivers to law enforcement. On your mobile phone, dial *ISP (*477) or just dial 9-1-1.


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