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11/18/2022

Ellen Mattila
ITD Communication
208-832-8776
ellen.mattila@itd.idaho.gov

How to get “Idaho Ready” for winter driving and holiday travel

Boise – With weather getting colder, and holidays on the horizon, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) wants to ensure that all drivers are “Idaho Ready” for winter driving conditions. “Idaho Ready” is ITD’s annual winter safety campaign to equip drivers with information and advice so they can safely and confidently navigate Idaho’s roadways, regardless of the forecast. 

On Thursday, ITD, Idaho State Police, and several county law-enforcement agencies gathered for a news conference to emphasize the importance of wearing seatbelts and driving according to conditions. Nearly 50 law enforcement and safety agencies participate in extra patrols to keep our roadways safe. Funding for the patrols and overtime work focused on seat belt violations and impaired driving enforcement are provided by a grant through ITD’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The campaign runs Nov. 17, 2022 - Jan. 1, 2023. Click here to download soundbites, video, and a photo from the event.

Safety is ITD’s top priority when preparing for winter weather, both for drivers and for the operators who maintain the roads every day. Hundreds of operators work around the clock to clear snow and keep Idaho’s 13,000 miles of highways safe. However, other drivers pose the biggest danger for operators. Last winter, 11 people crashed into snowplows in Idaho. Most drivers tried to pass snowplows on the right and hit a deployed wing plow. Reminding motorists that the safest place to be when roads are snowy is behind the plow, is just one of many topics ITD shares through the “Idaho Ready” campaign, along with these tips:

  • Check the road conditions before traveling. Visit 511.idaho.gov, download the Idaho 511 app, or follow @Idaho511 on Twitter. 511 has weather reports, cameras, road closures, and more.
  • Keep a winter emergency kit  in your car and prepare for winter driving by checking your windshield wiper fluid, battery, and tires.
  • When roads are wet or icy, slow down and give yourself more stopping distance. Turn off cruise control and remember, bridges and overpasses are the first to freeze when temperatures drop.
  • If you do slide, stay calm, brake gently, and turn your wheel in the direction of the skid. Don't over-correct.
  • Let others know your travel plans, especially if you will be driving through areas with no cell service. Check in when you arrive.
  • Using a GPS? Review the route before you hit the road in case your GPS tries to take you on unfamiliar or unmaintained back roads.
  • Beware of drowsy driving! Stop and rest when needed, and plan breaks on long road trips. Rest areas are also mapped on Idaho 511.
  • If your holiday celebrations include alcohol, plan for a sober ride home. Look out for your friends and family and help them get home safely too.
  • Buckle up, stay engaged behind the wheel, and drive for the conditions this winter.

Watch ITD’s social-media channels and website for weekly winter driving tips and best practices:

 
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