Idaho State Police Participates in Statewide Initiative to Combat Aggressive Driving

MERIDIAN, Idaho – The Idaho State Police (ISP) is collaborating with over 50 law enforcement agencies across the state to tackle the critical issue of aggressive driving. From July 19 to August 11, ISP troopers will increase patrols to target and mitigate dangerous driving behaviors on Idaho’s roads. 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 data from the Idaho Office of Highway Safety (OHS), 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. Regrettably, the rates in 2024 have increased over 2023, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Aggressive Driving Behaviors Include:

• Speeding
• Driving too fast for conditions
• Tailgating
• Reckless lane changes
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Failing to yield
• Cutting in front of another driver and then slowing down
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Changing lanes without signaling
• Running stop signs

Aggressive driving cost Idahoans an estimated $2.6 billion last year, representing a staggering 44% of the total economic cost of crashes. This financial burden is a stark reminder of the consequences, and ISP urges all drivers to exercise patience and caution. The decisions made behind the wheel can have profound effects on the safety of others.

Parents also play a pivotal role in combating aggressive driving. It’s crucial to discuss the dangers with teenage drivers, who statistics show are 4.2 times more likely to be involved in such incidents. Drivers 19 and younger are significantly overrepresented in aggressive driving collisions. Educating young drivers about safe driving practices is vital in reducing preventable tragedies. Parents have the power to make a difference.

This initiative is funded through grants from the Idaho Office of Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These funds enable enhanced patrols and enforcement efforts to ensure our roads are safer for everyone. Together, we can make Idaho’s roads safer for everyone. For more information on preventing aggressive driving and to learn about safe driving practices, visit Shift Idaho.

Report aggressive driving on our roadways by calling *ISP (*477).

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Posted in District 1 - Northern Idaho, District 2 - Central Idaho, District 3 - Western Idaho, District 4 - Southern Idaho, District 5 - Southeastern Idaho, District 6 - Eastern Idaho