7/4/2018
Fourth of July mobilization aims to keep roads free of drunk drivers
The Fourth of July is here and with it, one of the busiest travel holidays of the summer. As Idahoans hit the road for their vacations, they are reminded to drive sober.
Law enforcement agencies across the state are teaming up with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) to keep drunk drivers off the roads.
“We understand a lot of people enjoy a drink or two while they celebrate the Fourth,” said Lisa Losness from the Idaho Office of Highway Safety. “We are just asking those that celebrate to do it responsibly by finding a sober ride.”
In 2016, impaired driving was the cause of 821 crashes in Idaho resulting in 88 fatalities. This was a 12% increase over the previous year.
Additional officers will be on the roads looking for drunk drivers through the weekend but Losness says we can all do our part to keep our roads safe.
“If you’ve had too many drinks, don’t get behind the wheel,” she said. “Also, if you know someone has had too much to drink, don’t be afraid to speak up—it may not be the easiest thing to do but it can make a big difference.”