There were eight fatalities on roads in Bonner County this summer. According to Idaho Transportation Department statistics, it's the third-highest total in the state for the "100 deadliest days" between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Leading up to the days of summer, North Idaho drivers prepare for the looming threat that awaits them from Memorial Day to Labor Day — when serious and fatal crashes historically rise.  

It’s the time of year when travelers hit the road, eager to escape to the water for a hot summer day; when a 16-year-old takes the open road for the first time since summer break; or when someone gets behind the wheel after consuming alcohol at a bonfire. Especially in North Idaho, it’s when animals roam the streets at dawn and dusk.  

In 2026, 90 people were killed in crashes on Idaho roads during that timeframe, a modest increase from 88 fatalities in 2025.  

The top eight preliminary contributing circumstances for the fatalities are attributed to not wearing a seatbelt, failure to maintain lane, alcohol impairment, drug impairment, inattention, crossing the centerline, speed and failure to obey a stop sign, signal or yield.  

“Every one of these deaths impacts their families forever,” said Josephine Middleton, ITD highway safety manager. “We can save lives and prevent serious injuries by consistently choosing safety first: buckle up, stay focused, drive sober, and slow down. Our aim is to keep Idaho families intact.” 

According to the Idaho Transportation Department, Bonner County had eight fatalities, the third highest in Idaho behind Ada County, 13, and Bonneville, 10. Kootenai County had six fatalities, Benewah had three, and Shoshone had two. Boundary County did not record any fatalities.  

To help reduce fatalities or serious injury accidents, ITD is increasing safety campaigns during the 100 deadliest days. It also plans to expand law enforcement efforts through local collaboration to minimize impaired and aggressive driving and increase seat belt use.  

Infrastructure improvements are also on the list. 

Despite the increase in fatalities during the summer months, ITD reports an overall lower fatality count of 150 fatalities year-to-date, compared to 174 in 2025.