BOISE, ID – The Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS) is partnering with law enforcement agencies across the state for the 2025 “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, running August 15 through September 1. The effort aims to reduce impaired driving during the weeks leading up to Labor Day, historically one of the deadliest periods on Idaho’s roads.
According to OHS, 86 people died in Idaho in 2024 due to impaired driving, representing 36% of all traffic fatalities in the state. Nationwide, alcohol-impaired driving accounted for 30% of all crash deaths in 2023, with 12,429 lives lost — roughly one every 42 minutes, based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
“These aren’t just statistics,” said Josephine Middleton, ITD Highway Safety Manager. “Every number is a person; someone’s family member, friend, or coworker. This campaign is about more than the legal consequences of driving impaired. It’s about saving lives. If you’re impaired, don’t drive. It’s that simple.”
The campaign will not only involve increased enforcement but will also emphasize the role of everyday individuals in preventing tragedies. This includes designated drivers, friends who arrange rides, and people who plan ahead before consuming alcohol.
OHS urges Idahoans to:
- Use a sober driver, rideshare, or taxi.
- Never let friends drive impaired.
- Make a transportation plan before drinking.
Law enforcement will be out in visible numbers during the campaign, with the primary goal of ensuring everyone gets home safely.
More information is available at shift-idaho.org.
