Law enforcement urges safe driving on Highway 55 during 100 Deadliest Days

VALLEY COUNTY, Idaho – As summer traffic increases on Idaho’s scenic byways, law enforcement is issuing a reminder to those headed up Highway 55: drive smart, stay alert, and expect delays. This popular route, used heavily by locals and tourists alike, has seen multiple fatal crashes in recent weeks, each disrupting travel for hours and leaving lasting impacts on families and communities.

Highway 55’s terrain is unforgiving. With steep embankments, sharp curves, narrow shoulders, and limited passing zones, there’s little room for error. When crashes occur—especially from speeding, distraction, or unsafe passing—the results are often deadly. With long distances between towns, it can take time for first responders to arrive, which delays emergency care and blocks traffic for hours.

To help prevent further tragedies, the Idaho State Police (ISP) partnered with the Valley County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO) and McCall Police Department (MPD) last weekend for a focused traffic safety operation between Eagle and McCall. Over two days, officers conducted:

• 94 traffic stops
• 31 speeding citations
• 2 DUI arrests
• 0 reported crashes

“We’re seeing increased traffic on Highway 55, especially on weekends, as people head to the mountains to raft, camp, and enjoy the outdoors, and that’s great,” Captain Mike Winans, of ISP said. “During our recent emphasis patrol, we saw what’s possible when drivers make better choices, and law enforcement is visible: no crashes. That’s a win, but we need that same mindset every day, not just when law enforcement is out in force.”

The stretch between Boise and McCall presents seasonal hazards, including construction zones, wildlife crossings, heavy use at river access points, and a new traffic signal south of Smiths Ferry, all of which demand slower speeds, heightened attention, and patience.

“This stretch of Highway 55 is a corridor to adventure for many Idahoans,” Chief Dallas Palmer, of MPD said. “But it can turn deadly if drivers let impatience or poor decisions take over. Speeding, texting, drifting over the center line only takes one mistake to change lives forever.”

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days, a time when Idaho typically experiences a spike in fatal crashes. Scenic highways like 55 are particularly vulnerable due to high weekend traffic, unpredictable conditions, and common driving errors.

“Reckless driving doesn’t just put your life at risk, it puts every other driver in danger too,” Sheriff Copperi, of VCSO said. “Crashes in these areas don’t just cause injury, they delay emergency response and leave drivers stranded with no detour. Whether you’ve lived here for years or are visiting for the first time, we all share responsibility for road safety. Be the reason someone gets home, not the reason they don’t.”

Law enforcement will continue to increase patrols and public education throughout the summer, especially during high-traffic weekends.

Highway 55 Summer Travel Safety Tips:

• Slow down. Speed limits reflect the maximum safe speeds under ideal conditions; however, curves, traffic, and weather often require slower driving.
• Stay in your lane. Most serious crashes on Highway 55 involve unsafe passing or crossing the center line.
• Put the phone down. Distracted driving is dangerous and illegal in Idaho.
• Drive sober and alert. Alcohol, drugs, and fatigue impair reaction time, especially on mountain roads.
• Be courteous. Everyone shares the road. Give space, avoid tailgating, and keep calm.
• Plan for delays. Summer traffic, construction, and events add to travel time, so plan accordingly.
• Share the road. Whether towing a trailer or riding a motorcycle, mutual respect is key to everyone’s safety.

“The goal is simple,” Chief Palmer said. “Fewer crashes, fewer injuries, and fewer lives lost. We can’t undo a crash once it’s happened, but we can all do more to prevent the next one.”

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Posted in District 3 - Western Idaho