Law enforcement increase impaired driving patrols through Labor Day

As Idahoans make their end-of-summer plans, Boundary County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) to keep roads free of impaired drivers through Labor Day. Beginning this Friday, August 20, officers from more than 60 agencies across the state will increase patrols looking for drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

The high visibility enforcement campaign coincides with the close of the summer driving season known as the 100 Deadliest Days on Idaho roads. The term refers to the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends when there is an increase in deadly crashes.

According to Idaho crash data, impaired driving was the cause of 1,513 crashes in Idaho last year killing 92 people and injuring hundreds more. Forty-three percent of all fatalities were the result of an impaired driving crash.

“Driving under the influence of any substance is dangerous and illegal, and these deaths are preventable,” said Sheriff Kramer. “We’re working together to help keep our communities whole.”

While Deputies are out looking for drunken drivers, Sheriff Kramer says preventing impaired driving takes a community effort.

“Idaho is a great place to live because we look out for each other,” he said. “If you see someone who’s had too much to drink help them find a safe, sober ride home. If they insist on driving, give us a call and we’ll take it from there.”

Impaired Driving Quick Facts:

— Last year impaired driving was a factor in 6.7% of all crashes in Idaho but contributed to 43% of all traffic fatalities.

— In 2020, a person was killed in an impaired driving crash every four days in Idaho.

— 71% of motor vehicle occupants killed in DUI crashes were not wearing seat belts.

— 6,939 people were arrested for DUI in 2020.

— Males comprised 72% of the drivers involved in impaired driving crashes.