LEWISTON, ID – Idaho drivers can expect to see ISP troopers conducting extra emphasis patrols for distracted driving through the weekend. Inattentive driving is a leading cause of crashes in Idaho and the United States, according to District 4 Patrol Lieutenant Robert Rausch.
“The economic and human costs of these crashes take a major toll on families, friends, and our communities,” Rausch says. “Among the most observed instances of distracted driving are the use of cellular devices, which takes attention away from the task of driving. Unfortunately, there are often tragic consequences. Through this weekend, troopers will pay extra attention to these violations to help keep the Holiday Season safer for travelers. For everyone’s sake, do the right thing and follow the law. Put down the phone and focus full attention on driving safely.”
Idaho Transportation Department statistics indicate that Idaho had 5,003 distracted driving crashes, including 30 fatalities and 284 serious injuries, in 2021. The National Safety Council found the percentage of drivers manipulating hand-held electronic devices increased by 127% from 2012 to 2021.
Distracted driving is defined as specific inattention that occurs when drivers divert their attention from driving to focus on another activity, according to the ISP’s Aaron Snell.
Idaho State Police encourages drivers to put down distractions and focus on driving as the winter roads may be dangerous.
