100 deadliest days: ISP on how to protect yourself and others on the roads this summer
LEWISTON, Idaho– "During this time of the year, obviously, as we all know, the weather is changing. It's getting a lot warmer out, which brings people out and about to take part in everything idaho has to offer," Idaho State Police Trooper Bryant Eckman said.
With that, the most dangerous time of the year is just around the corner.
Memorial Day is the official start to what is known as the 100 deadliest days, and it runs through Labor Day.
"The roadways are busier, which unfortunately also means that there's a propensity to have traffic collisions and other things we're trying to prevent," Trooper Eckman said.
According to the Idaho Transportation Department, there were 72 fatal crashes in Idaho during the 100 deadliest days in 2022.
To date, in 2023, there have already been 71 more fatal crashes.
The three most common causes are distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding.
Trooper Eckman referenced an NHTSA study about the dangers of cell phone use.
"Reading a text message, for example, on average takes an individual's eyes off the road for approximately five seconds. You travel like the length of a football field at highway speeds," Trooper Eckman said.
Even if you are not driving impaired, there is still a role you can play to help law enforcement to find those who do.
"911 is an option. Another option is to call ISP directly. The number for that is either *ISP or *477, and that'll dispatch through us, and we can address those kinds of driving behaviors," Trooper Eckman said.
Other important messages to keep in mind: Pay attention to your surroundings, obey posted speed limits, and keep a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles on the roadways.
