8/17/2020
Police on heightened alert for impaired drivers through Labor Day
BOISE - Police Departments throughout Idaho will be dispatching extra patrols looking for impaired drivers as the end of the 100 Deadliest Days approaches.
As part of this high visibility enforcement, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) provides grants to pay overtime for police officers conducting patrols dedicated to apprehending impaired drivers.
Patrols will begin today, Aug. 17, and continue through Sept. 7.
“Impaired driving greatly impacts our communities,” said Idaho State Police Trooper Tauna Davis. “With increased patrols, we are aiming to not only change behavior, but prevent injuries and lives lost as a result of impaired driving.”
Last year, impaired-driving fatalities increased by nearly 27% across the state compared to 2018. There were 99 people killed in impaired driving crashes, with 37 of those fatalities occurring during the 100 Deadliest Days.
Increased messaging about the dangers of impaired driving through billboards and social media carried out by ITD’s Highway Safety division, coupled with increased patrols, significantly reduces the number of impaired crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the final days of summer.
The consequences of a single DUI conviction for a first-time offender in the state of Idaho may include costly fines, court costs, legal fees, license suspension, and possible jail time.
If you spot a suspected impaired driver call the REDDI (Report Every Drunk Driver Immediately) toll free number, 1-800-233-1212, or cellular *ISP.