Drive safe for the holidays

December 23, 2013

Festive parties and celebrations are under way so the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) reminds motorists to make this holiday season safer for everyone by choosing to not drive impaired.

ITD is partnering with Idaho law enforcement agencies statewide to make Idaho’s highways safer by making highway-safety funds available for additional impaired-driving education campaigns and high-visibility enforcement patrols through New Year's Day.

"ITD's goal is not one death, because every life counts," said Mary Burke, with ITD’s Office of Highway Safety. "We're committed to doing everything we can to help keep families safe and whole."

Last year, impaired driving contributed to 1,454 crashes on Idaho's highways and caused 73 fatalities.

Burke advises everyone to wear a seat belt when in a motor vehicle or use a helmet and protective gear when on a motorcycle because it’s the best defense against an impaired driver.

She encourages partygoers to have a plan before festivities begin such as designating a sober driver or pre-arranging a safe ride home.

“If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take his or her keys and help make other safe travel arrangements,” she said, adding that drunk drivers should be reported promptly to law enforcement.

“If you are not sure if you are impaired, call a taxi or sober friend or family member to get you home safely,” she said.

Motorists are reminded to dial 5-1-1 or visit http://511.idaho.gov for the latest conditions on the state highway or interstate system.