With the upcoming Memorial Day weekend also comes the beginning of the, “100 deadliest days,” on the highways. The days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are statistically when more fatal crashes occur on Idaho roadways. In an attempt to reduce the number of crashes and fatalities during this time, the Nampa Police Department is increasing the number of DUI patrols throughout the summer.
“We have partnered with the Idaho Transportation Department, Office of Highway Safety, to enhance our DUI enforcement with extra officers,” said Corporal Doug Harward, NPD DUI team supervisor. “The extra patrols are funded though grant money from the Idaho OHS and that allows us to remove more impaired drivers from our roadways.”
The extra patrols are planned to occur when larger events are taking place and holiday weekends during the summer. The Nampa Police Department is a member of the Treasure Valley DUI Task Force that includes the Idaho State Police and several other local law enforcement agencies.
“As the weather gets warmer and more motorists are on the roads, we ask that you take time to look twice for motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians,” said Harward. “We also want to remind everyone to plan ahead for a safe ride home if they are going to consume any alcohol while they are out.”
Harward suggests making your plan for getting home safe ahead of time and to not wait until after you’ve started drinking. Some of his suggestions are relying on a sober friend or family member to get you home, calling a cab or contacting a service like Lyft or Uber. “Help us work towards zero deaths on Idaho roads,” said Harward.