Kootenai County – This Independence Day, the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office is working with the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) to keep roads free of impaired drivers. Starting July 1st and running through July 15th, law enforcement from approximately 60 agencies across the state will dedicate patrols looking for drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
According to OHS data, impaired driving was the cause of 1,501 crashes in 2019, resulting in 99 deaths in Idaho. In 2019there were 8,084 DUI arrests statewide. With COVID restrictions lifting and summer activities ramping back up, many Idahoans are eager to get together with family and friends. Please keep safety in mind when gathering to celebrate.
“We want our community to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday, but we also want responsible drivers on our roads,” said Sheriff Robert Norris. “If you plan on drinking, also make a plan for a sober ride home. Driving under the influence of any substance is dangerous and illegal, and will land you a DUI.”
During last summer’s Fourth of July impaired driving campaign, law enforcement officers in Kootenai County made 44 DUI arrests. This was in cooperation with the North Idaho DUI Task Force, which will be mobilized during this holiday weekend. While additional officers will be on the lookout for impaired drivers, we can all do our part to keep Idaho’s roads safe. Celebrate with a plan and remember these safe alternatives:
- It is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or use a ride sharing service to get home safely.
- Wear a seat belt! It is not only the law, it is the best defense in a vehicle. Buckling up helps prevent injury and death if involved in a crash.
- If you see a suspected impaired driver use your cell phone in hands-free mode to call 911.
- Do you have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.
We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Holiday Weekend!!!