Beware: The 100 Deadliest Days in the Gem State Begin Soon

Many are counting the days until summer officially begins, and while most don't know the actual first day of summer, the overall population counts Memorial Day as the start of summer. The holiday weekend usually marks school being out, warmer weather arriving, and the beginning of fun for the next few months. The Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of the 100 deadliest days of summer in Idaho and means that residents need to be cautious and not become a statistic this year. 

The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer in Idaho

For those unfamiliar with the 100 deadliest days of summer, it is exactly what it sounds like. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there are typically more wrecks, crashes, and accidents in the Gem State than at any time of the year, and sadly, many of these wrecks end in fatalities. Last year alone there were 82 reported traffic deaths during these 100 days. While that number is alarming and high, it is down from 2023, when the state saw an astounding 93 deaths. This is far too many for any time of year, but especially in such a short time. With kids out of school, tourists traveling through the state, and many residents taking their trips, the roads are much more dangerous during summer. 

What to Know About the 100 Deadliest Days in Idaho

Before heading out on your vacation, your day trip, or to go hiking or fishing for the day, there are a few things to know before hitting the road. The most common reasons for so many accidents during this time are due to distracted driving, impaired driving, and aggressive driving. Not wearing a seatbelt is also a major factor leading to many of the deaths in these wrecks. Make sure to slow down and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. It is more important to make it there than to get there quickly. Make sure to put your phone down and distractions away when behind the wheel. Let someone in the car read you a text you get, or wait until you are stopped. During the summer many like to have a drink, but do not get behind a wheel if you have had any alcohol. Wait until you can sleep it off or call for a ride. 

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Over the last five years, there have been over 100,000 wrecks involving Idaho drivers and far too many of those have happened during this period. Summer is meant to be a fun time and enjoyed, but you need to be safe and cautious, or your summer could end too soon or be ruined in a second. For more on the 100 deadliest days, make sure to click the links above.