ISP targets aggressive drivers
STAFF REPORT | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 years, 3 months AGO
The Idaho State Police is collaborating with over 50 law enforcement agencies across the state, including Kootenai County, to tackle aggressive driving.
From July 19 to Aug. 11, ISP troopers will increase patrols to target and mitigate dangerous driving behaviors on Idaho’s roads, a press release said.
This effort is part of the “100 Deadliest Days,” a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities typically increase due to increased travel, and law enforcement focuses on making roadways safer.
According to the Idaho Office of Highway Safety, aggressive driving contributed to nearly 14,000 crashes and 103 fatalities in 2023, accounting for 27% of all traffic fatalities in the state.
"This underscores the pressing need for focused enforcement and public education," the release said. "Regrettably, the rates in 2024 have increased over 2023, emphasizing the urgency of the situation."
Aggressive driving behaviors include speeding, tailgating, reckless lane changes, failing to yield and running stop signs.
Aggressive driving cost Idahoans an estimated $2.6 billion last year, representing 44% of the total economic cost of crashes, the release said.
Drivers 19 and younger are "significantly overrepresented" in aggressive driving collisions, the release said
Educating young drivers about safe driving practices is vital in reducing preventable tragedies. Parents have the power to make a difference," the release said.
Report aggressive driving on our roadways by calling *ISP (*477).
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