Idaho State Police urges vigilance during Memorial Day weekend, start of 100 Deadliest Days of Summer

MERIDIAN, Idaho – As Memorial Day approaches, the Idaho State Police (ISP) pauses to honor the brave servicemen and women who gave their lives defending our country. Their selfless sacrifice secures the freedoms we hold dear. ISP also extends its deep gratitude to all veterans and active-duty military personnel whose continued service helps protect our communities.

While Memorial Day is a time of remembrance, it also marks the unofficial start of summer—a season that, unfortunately, often brings increased tragedy to Idaho’s roads. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days—a title that reflects more than a cliché. It’s a stark reminder of drivers’ heightened risks during this time due to heavier travel, summer celebrations, and reckless or impaired driving.

Last summer, more than 82 people were killed on Idaho roads, just shy of the 93 lives lost during the same period the year before. The most common contributing factors included failure to maintain a lane, speeding, alcohol or drug impairment, inattention, failure to yield, crossing the centerline, following too closely, overcorrecting, and improper turns.

“Every crash has consequences that ripple through our communities,” Lieutenant Colonel Fritz Zweigart said. “These aren’t just numbers—they represent lives forever changed because of poor choices behind the wheel. Driving is a serious responsibility. Your decisions on the road don’t just affect you—they affect everyone around you. Slowing down, staying sober, and paying attention are simple actions that save lives.”

Over the Memorial Day weekend, ISP troopers will increase patrols statewide, focusing on impaired drivers, speeders, aggressive driving, and seatbelt violations. These efforts will continue throughout the summer in partnership with local law enforcement agencies across Idaho.

ISP’s Memorial Day & Summer Driving Tips

• Slow Down: Higher speeds mean less time to react and more severe crashes.
• Drive Sober: Plan ahead. Buzzed, drunk, or high—it’s all impaired.
• Stay Alert: Fatigue and distractions can be as deadly as impairment.
• Watch for Motorcycles: Look twice. Riders are harder to see and more vulnerable.
• Give Space to RVs & Trailers: Larger vehicles need more time and room to stop and turn.
• Use Caution in Work Zones: Road crews deserve safe spaces. Fines double in construction zones.
• Keep Your Cool: Heat and traffic create tension. Don’t let it escalate into road rage.

Your action could save a life. If you see a dangerous or impaired driver, pull over safely and call *ISP (*477) to report it.

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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