LEWISTON, ID — With holiday traffic expected to surge and winter weather moving into north-central Idaho, the Idaho State Police is asking drivers to take extra precautions on the roads this Thanksgiving week.
Snow is forecast for the Camas Prairie and several regional mountain passes, creating potentially hazardous conditions during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. ISP said troopers will increase patrols on major corridors, including U.S. Highway 12, U.S. Highway 95, and nearby state highways where traffic typically spikes during the holiday rush.
Patrols will focus on impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and other hazardous violations. The agency emphasized its goal of preventing fatal crashes as families head out for holiday gatherings.
Drivers are urged to:
- Drive sober or find a sober ride
- Buckle up on every trip
- Slow down and increase following distance
- Avoid distractions, including cell phones
- Move over for emergency and tow vehicles, as required by Idaho law
- Prepare vehicles for winter weather, especially when traveling outside the Lewis–Clark Valley
Travel is expected to be heaviest Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.
“Snow is forecast for many regions around the valley, and when you mix that with heavy Thanksgiving travel, conditions can turn dangerous quickly,” Captain Mike Mooney said. “Drivers need to slow down, stay alert, and give themselves extra time.”
Motorists who suspect an impaired driver on the road are encouraged to call 911 or dial *ISP (*477).
