Don’t Do The Stupidest Things You See on Idaho Roads

The 100 deadliest days continue to roll on, as summer in Idaho on the roads can be dangerous. There are far too many accidents happening, too much construction causing drivers to go well out of their way, and too many laws being broken on the road. It seems daily fatalities are happening around the Gem State, with many involving motorcycles, semi-trucks, and young drivers. While all of this is taking place, some of the stupidest driving is happening as well. As you drive to and from work, run errands, or wherever you go, avoid these stupid things on the road that too many drivers are attempting lately in Idaho.

Driving the Wrong Way in Idaho

Impatience seems to be the biggest issue on the roads these days as everyone is in a hurry to get where they are going. Some have even gone to the extent of driving on the other side of the road. Recently, I saw an incident where a person was looking to turn left, despite not being in a place where they could do so. They shot across a few lanes, to then sit facing the wrong way on Pole Line, as they sat in a turn-only lane. They wanted to pull a U-turn to then join traffic, even though they should have turned right, gone down, and then pulled the U-turn. Some drivers are being stupid and not using common sense. 

Impatient Drivers in Idaho

Sticking with impatience while driving, the same can be mentioned when it comes to passing cars on two-lane roads. Most know not to cross a solid line and to wait until oncoming traffic is clear, and best to do so on a straight road. Over the last week, I have seen far too many cross solid lines, test to see if they can get over before oncoming traffic collides with them, or try to pass on curving roads where they have no idea if traffic is coming from the other direction, or how much time they have to pass. All of these are bonehead decisions and not wise maneuvers. 

Slow Drivers in the Gem State

While many focus on speed being the biggest issue on the roads, and it is one of many, but so is driving too slow. For those going well under the speed limit, it can put drivers in a dangerous situation as it forces others to decide to go around or stay behind. Recently, I was stuck behind multiple drivers going ten or more under the speed limit on highways, forcing cars to adjust and put themselves at risk. The most egregious of these was a vehicle going 45 miles per hour on a road where the speed limit was 65. If you don't want to go fast, it is ok, but at least go the speed limit. 

Road Rage in the Magic Valley

With patience being tested, roads being closed, and everyone in a hurry, there is plenty of road rage happening on the roads in Idaho. Many are cutting off other vehicles, tailgating, brake-checking, and flashing hand gestures. None of these solve the issues and only makes the roads a more dangerous place. These are dumb ways to drive and are not solutions to any problems on the road. 

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As you hit the road this summer, make sure to make smart choices and not put others' lives at risk. Be patient, be courteous, and drive safely. There are already enough stupid things happening on the highways, interstates, and streets in the Gem State; don't contribute to them by doing any of the above.