Law enforcement agencies across Idaho plan to beef up traffic patrols through Monday to discourage impaired driving, the Idaho Transportation Department announced Thursday.
St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest periods on the nation’s roads, the transportation department said. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, between 2017 and 2021, 272 lives were lost in drunk driving accidents during this holiday period.
At a local level, throughout 2022, the Office of Highway Safety data reveals 1,799 impaired driving crashes in Idaho, resulting in 110 deaths. During this time, law enforcement made 7,781 DUI arrests statewide.
“Taking a moment to plan for a sober ride can make all the difference in ensuring a safe celebration for everyone,” said Idaho State Police Lieutenant Colonel Sheldon Kelley. He underscored the importance of proactive planning and responsible decision-making during festive occasions. “Don’t tempt fate on St. Patrick’s Day; get a sober ride home.”
People are advised to intervene if a friend insists on driving under the influence. Drivers are urged to find a safe ride home if they plan on consuming substances that could impair driving abilities.
The funding for additional patrols targeting impaired driving enforcement on St. Patrick’s Day is made possible through a grant from the Office of Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Anyone wishing further resources on preventing impaired driving may visit shift-idaho.org/beheretomorrow.
