July 22, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

RE:  Aggressive Driving patrols increase during 100 Deadliest Days

     The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office is teaming up with the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) to keep Idaho roads safe this summer. Beginning Friday, July 23, Deputies from Bonneville County will join close to 60 law enforcement agencies statewide putting extra officers on the roads looking for aggressive drivers.  The effort comes in the middle of the 100 Deadliest Days on Idaho roads, when there is an increase in fatal crashes between Memorial Day and Labor Day. According to OHS preliminary data, 40 people have died in crashes in Idaho since Memorial Day weekend this year. 

     Aggressive driving has been a contributing factor in half of all crashes in Idaho. It happens when a driver makes the choice to speed, follow another car too closely, run a red light or ignore a stop sign, weave in and out of traffic, or not use turn signals. July 23 through August 8, officers will dedicate patrols to enforcing Idaho’s speed limits.  “Our goal is to save lives,” said Sheriff Sam Hulse. “Please stay alert behind the wheel and watch for the posted speed limit signs, they exist for a reason. The roadways can be a dangerous place and speed limits are designed to protect everyone – drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.” Speeding greatly reduces a driver’s ability to slow down when necessary or to steer safely around an unexpected curve, another vehicle, or hazard in the road. It also increases danger for pedestrians and people who ride bicycles. 

     Sheriff Hulse and Bonneville County Sheriff’s Deputies stress the importance of slowing down, having patience, and making complete attention to your driving a priority.  Doing so makes you a part of reducing the risk of crashes and saving lives.  In addition, Motorcyclists should always wear a helmet and occupants of vehicles should always wear their seat belt to take full advantage of safety systems engineered for your protection.