BOISE, ID — Law enforcement agencies across Idaho will increase patrols through the holiday season as part of a statewide impaired driving mobilization running from December 10 through January 2, according to the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety (OHS).

The annual campaign launches during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, when impaired driving crashes historically increase. Extra officers will be on the roads to identify and stop impaired drivers in an effort to reduce serious injuries and fatalities.

OHS reports an 18% decrease in impaired driving fatality crashes in 2024, though impaired driving remains a leading cause of traffic deaths statewide. Last year, 86 Idahoans were killed in crashes involving impaired drivers, accounting for more than one-third of all roadway fatalities.

“We are partnering with forty-nine local agencies who are working overtime to get impaired drivers off the road throughout this holiday season,” said OHS Highway Safety Manager Josephine Middleton. “The best way to avoid tragedy is to plan for a sober ride home and remember to thank the designated drivers who make sure everyone gets there safely.”

OHS urges drivers to plan ahead, use a sober ride, and never allow friends or family members to drive impaired. Enforcement will be visible statewide, with officials noting the priority is ensuring every Idahoan arrives home safely.

More information about OHS programs and safety efforts can be found at shift-idaho.org.