BOISE ID – The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) and Office of Highway Safety (OHS) are joining communities across the state to recognize Teen Traffic Safety Week, observed October 19–25, 2025. The campaign emphasizes the importance of safe driving habits among teen drivers and their families.
According to OHS, teen drivers face unique risks on Idaho’s roads and are 2.6 times more likely to be involved in a crash than other drivers. The department is urging families, schools, and organizations to focus on four key principles for safe driving:
- Buckle up – Always wear a seat belt, no matter the distance.
- Avoid distractions – Keep phones and other distractions out of reach.
- Drive sober – Never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Practice patience – Confidence and safety improve through mentorship and experience.
“Teen drivers are among the most vulnerable on Idaho’s roads,” said Josephine Middleton, Highway Safety Manager for OHS. “By educating young drivers and their families, we can reduce crashes and make our roads safer for everyone.” Middleton also noted that adults play a vital role in modeling safe behavior behind the wheel. “If we tell our teens not to text and drive but they see us doing it, how much credibility do we really have?”
OHS continues to promote safe driving through multiple statewide initiatives, including:
- Backseat Driver’s Manual – An activity book developed with local students to engage younger audiences and encourage family discussions about safe driving.
- SHIFT Idaho – A statewide platform providing educational materials, resources, and community engagement opportunities.
- Parent-Teen Driving Contracts – Tools for families to establish clear expectations and responsibilities for young drivers.
- Alive at 25 – A defensive driving course focused on helping teens make safer decisions.
- Driver Education Partnerships – Collaborative programs with the Idaho Department of Education and local driving schools to maintain quality driver training across the state.
For more information about teen driving resources and safety programs, visit shift-idaho.org/teen-driving.
