Idaho’s Deadliest: Recapping May ‘24s Month of Fatal Accidents

As Idaho heads into the 100 Deadliest Days on Idaho Roads, here's a brief recap of some of the most tragic accidents that have occurred in The Gem State during May of 2024.

Charges Filed in Deadly Crash That Killed Six People

In a tragic incident, a driver has been charged with vehicular manslaughter following a crash that killed six people in Idaho. The accident and the man being charged is being investigated to determine his immigration status. The full story is available here.

Fatal Crash in Emmett, Idaho Involving Subaru

Tragedy struck in Ettett, Idaho when a Subaru was involved in a fatal crash. The incident occurred on a rural road, resulting in the untimely death of the driver. Local authorities are investigating the cause of the accident. For more details, read the full story here.

Collision on US95 in Owyhee County

A severe vehicle collision on US95 in Owyhee County led to multiple fatalities and serious injuries. The crash involved several vehicles and caused significant disruption on the highway. Detailed information about the incident can be found here.

Chain-Reaction Crash in Heyburn, Idaho

A chain-reaction crash in Heyburn, Idaho, left many injured and resulted in one fatality. The accident involved multiple vehicles. Authorities are piecing together the events that led to this devastating crash. For a comprehensive recap, visit this link.

Young Driver Killed in Idaho Car Accident

A young driver lost their life in a tragic car accident in Idaho. The incident has raised concerns about road safety and the risks faced by young drivers. Details of the crash and the ongoing investigation can be found here.

Investigations into May Fatal Accidents

The month of May saw several fatal accidents in Idaho, prompting thorough investigations by local authorities. These incidents have underscored the importance of road safety and vigilance. For a summary of the investigations, read more here.

Fatal Accident Involving SUV and Semi-Truck

A deadly collision involving an SUV and a semi-truck resulted in fatalities and significant damage. The accident occurred on a busy highway, drawing a swift response from emergency services. More information about this tragic event is available here.

Fatal Motorcycle Collision in Idaho

A motorcyclist tragically lost their life in a collision with a deer south of Midvale, Idaho. The male driver was injured and taken to the hospital. The female passenger died at the scene.  For further details, visit this link.

Idaho State Police Urges Caution During the 100 Deadliest Days

With Memorial Day Weekend marking the beginning of the "100 Deadliest Days" on Idaho roads, the Idaho State Police (ISP) is calling on drivers to remain vigilant and drive safely. This period, spanning from Memorial Day to Labor Day, is known for its heightened risk due to increased traffic, warmer temperatures, and more outdoor activities.

In 2023, the Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) documented 7,430 crashes during this period, leading to 79 fatalities. This year, there have already been 46 reported deaths. Colonel Kedrick Wills, Director of ISP, highlighted the profound impact of these crashes on communities and families, stressing the importance of responsible driving and safety awareness.

To combat these risks, ISP and other law enforcement agencies across Idaho will intensify enforcement efforts throughout the summer. Their focus will be on impaired driving, aggressive driving, and seatbelt violations. During Memorial Day Weekend, troopers will strictly enforce laws against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead for a sober ride. If you notice an impaired driver, safely pull over and contact *ISP (*477).

Key Safety Tips from ISP:

• Buckle Up: Your best defense against impaired drivers.
• Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and concentrate on the road.
• Follow Speed Limits: Speeding increases the likelihood of accidents.
• Keep Safe Distances: Maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
• Never Drive Impaired: Plan ahead for a sober ride home.

Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable during the 100 Deadliest Days due to their inexperience and lack of driving skills. From 2010 to 2019, over 7,000 people nationwide died in teen-related crashes during the summer months. Parents play a critical role in promoting safe driving habits by discussing responsibilities, enforcing licensing laws, setting clear rules, and modeling good driving behavior. Limiting passengers and restricting nighttime driving can significantly reduce the risk of accidents for teen drivers.