Idaho Roads Need to Add an Extra Lane

Driving in Idaho is known to not be the best. There are far too many wrecks, drivers going too fast, drivers going too slow, and many not paying attention. It seems that daily, fatal accidents are happening, despite a lower population than in many other places across the country. Anytime someone gets into a vehicle, it could be the last, as things happen quickly, and crossing a line, running a stop sign, or looking away for a second could end a life. There is a simple solution to help prevent some of these issues, if Idaho is willing to do it. Idaho roads and interstates need an extra lane, and it needs to be for specific drivers. 

An Extra Lane on Idaho Roads

Anyone driving in the Gem State can tell you that far too many drivers are distracted by texting. Without seeing what they are doing, there are signs of this type of behavior. Texting drivers typically are swerving, slowing down significantly to text, then speeding up when waiting for a response, and exhibiting erratic behavior behind the wheel. It is well known that texting and driving is against the law, yet many do it. Instead of letting them continue to put other drivers at risk by being all over the road, riding bumpers, or slowing people down in the left lane, why not establish a lane with a barrier titled 'the texting lane'? This way, drivers can text and drive without putting others at risk. 

Texting Lane in Idaho

How would a text lane work? It would be similar to a carpool or HUB lane, where a barrier separates the lane from others, allowing drivers to go slower or faster and get out of the way. If you have a text to read or type, you can put yourself in the lane without having to worry about gliding into another lane or oncoming traffic, as well as other vehicles are doing the same, so the lack of speed won't bother them. It may seem absurd and will never happen, but it could make the road safer and help limit wrecks. The issue is that every road in Idaho would need to be redone, which would cost far too much money. But would it be worth it? If you can't force drivers to get off their phones by making it against the law, why not give them a safer way to do so? 

Get our free mobile app

Put the phones away and wait until you are stopped or out of the car. There are many ways to have conversations without looking down at a phone these days. Using voice-activated apps, have someone in the vehicle help you, or wait and focus on driving, and put other things on hold. If you wreck, those other things may never come to be. Perhaps a texting lane will become a thing one day, but for now, be alert on the roads, be patient, and drive safely.