Idaho: State Police ramp up patrols to make zero deaths the goal through St. Patrick’s Day

The Idaho State Police, local law enforcement and the Idaho Transportation Department are mobilizing in an effort to stop impaired driving March 10th through the 18th.  ISP and numerous local agencies in Southeast Idaho will be stepping up their patrol efforts, safety campaigns, and educational presentations to make our highways and roadways safe for travel.   
The effort is part of Idaho’s Toward Zero Deaths’ goal to someday have no traffic deaths on Idaho’s roads. Traffic deaths are not just numbers. They are family members and friends lost.
During the campaign, officers will be watching for impaired drivers.  They will also check for seat belt use.  
Don’t be fooled if you feel ‘buzzed.’  The ‘buzz’ can get you put in jail by the ‘fuzz!’  It’s not worth the risk.  Not only do you risk injuring or killing yourself or someone else, but the financial costs of an arrest or crash are significant to our society.
In 2010, there were 10,726 DUI arrests in Idaho, and 96 fatalities resulting from impaired driving.  In addition, there were 1,593 impaired driving crashes.  45.9% of all Idaho fatalities in 2010 were the result of impaired driving!
– Whenever you plan on consuming alcohol, designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.

– If you’re impaired, call a taxi, a sober friend, or family member to get you home safely.

– If you go to a bar, check with the workers.  Many local bars have programs to give patrons a free ride home.

– Promptly report suspected drunk drivers you see on roadways to law enforcement.  To contact the Idaho State Police, call *477, or your local law enforcement agency.

– If you know someone who is about to drive impaired, take his or her keys, and help make other transportation arrangements.
Your best defense against drunk drivers is to always wear a seat belt and remain attentive to your surroundings and other drivers.