Local Agencies and Companies Urge Safe Driving as “100 Deadliest Days” of Summer Begin

Joint Release from ACHD, ITD, Idaho Power, and Intermountain Gas Call for Vigilance on the Road
Ada County Highway District sent this bulletin at 05/25/2025 11:25 AM MDT

ADA COUNTY — As summer break begins and traffic increases, local agencies are joining forces to raise awareness about the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer—the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic crashes and fatalities traditionally spike, particularly among teen drivers.

The Ada County Highway District, Idaho Power, Idaho Transportation Department, Intermountain Gas, and other local partners are asking everyone to drive safely, stay alert, and share the road responsibly.

“Summer should be a time for making memories, not tragedies,” said ACHD Director Ryan Head. “As more young drivers and commuters hit the road in warmer weather, we all have a role to play in keeping our streets safe—whether behind the wheel, on a bike, or on foot.”

According to the Idaho Transportation Department, the 100 Deadliest Days account for nearly half of all annual teen driver-related fatalities in the state. Risk factors include speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and failure to wear seat belts.

“We call this period the 100 Deadliest Days, but it would be great to be proven wrong,” said Office of Highway Safety Program Manager Josephine Middleton. “Make it safer out there for yourself and others, and remember, when traveling in rural areas, to be extra vigilant because emergency crash response times are more challenging.”

To help reduce risk, local agencies are emphasizing the “good moves” commuters can make to keep Idaho roads safe:

  • Avoid distractions—put your phone down and stay focused on the road.
  • Watch for students—many summer school and extracurricular programs are still in session.
  • Drive sober and buckle up—every time, every trip.
  • Expect more cyclists and pedestrians—especially during morning and evening commutes.

Local partners are also asking all drivers to use extra caution around crews working near roadways, including utility workers and construction crews. Slow down, give them extra space, and watch for cones and flaggers.

“We urge all drivers to slow down and pay close attention to flaggers, traffic cones and signage when driving near utility work zones,” said Intermountain Gas District Manager Randy Morgan. “Our crews are often working in the street or public right of way, and we want them as well as the public protected during installation or repair of critical services for our community.”

Agencies and companies will also continue education campaigns and community outreach throughout the summer to reduce crashes and promote safe commuting habits.