Idaho urges sober driving as America 250 approaches

BOISE — The Office of Highway Safety at the Idaho Transportation Department is launching a statewide impaired-driving mobilization to keep communities safe as Idahoans prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. 

On July 5, law enforcement agencies across Idaho will increase high-visibility patrols to stop impaired drivers and prevent tragedies before they happen. 

This year’s effort emphasizes the theme that nothing is more patriotic than taking care of the people who live, work, and travel in their own community. With that in mind, OHS is encouraging Idahoans to have a designated driver, as impaired driving accounted for 35% of all traffic crash fatalities in Idaho in 2025. 

“Drivers aged 30 and under are involved in impaired driving crashes at a disproportionately high rate,” said OHS Highway Safety Manager Josephine Middleton. “It’s encouraging to see fewer fatalities in some areas, but the numbers show the problem is far from solved. Choosing not to drive impaired is one of the simplest ways to keep your neighbors safe.”