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The Idaho Transportation Department reminds
motorists to make this holiday season safer for
everyone by choosing to not drive impaired.
“Whether you’ve had one or two drinks, or way
too many, it’s not worth the risk to you or your
family,” said Kevin Bechen with ITD. “Make the
right choice.”
Idaho law enforcement agencies will be
participating in education campaigns and
high-visibility enforcement patrols statewide in
a search for drunk or impaired drivers.
The campaign runs Dec. 17 through Jan. 2, 2013.
ITD's Office of Highway Safety funds the
campaign against impaired driving through a
federal grant that covers overtime pay for law
enforcement officers.
While all law enforcement throughout the state
will be enforcing drunk-driving laws, many
agencies including state police, sheriffs and
local agencies will be participating in the
overtime patrols.
Violators can face jail time, the loss of their
driver’s license, higher insurance rates and
many unanticipated expenses like attorney’s
fees, fines and court costs, towing and repairs,
and lost time at work.
“That’s if you are lucky,” Bechen said. “Last
year, 66 people died in impaired-driving crashes
on Idaho’s highways.”
“ITD’s goal is not one death, because every life
counts,” Bechen explained. “We’re committed to
do everything we can to help keep families safe
and whole.”
Bechen offered tips to make the holiday party
season safer.
- If you plan on consuming alcohol,
designate a sober driver before leaving and give
that person your keys.
- If you are not sure if you are
impaired, call a taxi or sober friend or family
member to get you home safely.
- Promptly report drunk drivers to law
enforcement.
- Wear your seat belt while in your car
or use a helmet and protective gear when on a
motorcycle. These are the best defenses against
an impaired driver.
- If you know someone who is about to
drive while impaired, take his or her keys and
help make other safe travel arrangements
- Check the 511 Traveler Services
website (511.idaho.gov) or call 5-1-1 before
embarking on holiday trips for updates on
highway and weather conditions.
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