ADA COUNTY — With the school year ending and summer travel beginning, local agencies from around Ada County are coming together to amplify the importance of safety during summer travel.
Next Monday marks the first day of the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic crashes and fatalities tend to spike.
The Ada County Highway District, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Ada County Paramedics, Boise Police Department, Garden City Police Department, Meridian Police Department, Idaho Transportation Department and Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho are joining other local partners in asking everyone to keep safety in mind when traveling.
“Ada County has so much to offer during the summer months, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it safely,” said Ryan Head, director of the Ada County Highway District. “No matter where your summer plans take you, making safe choices, however you travel, helps keep everyone moving safely throughout the Treasure Valley.”
Drivers are being encouraged to stay focused behind the wheel and remain aware of changing traffic conditions. Drivers are also being asked to use extra caution around crews working near roadways. Travelers should slow down, give workers extra space, and watch carefully for cones, signs, and flaggers in active work zones.
Local law enforcement agencies are encouraging drivers to slow down, stay alert and use extra caution in areas that see increased traffic during the summer.
“Keep your eyes up, stay alert, and remember there are real people in every vehicle, on every motorcycle and on every bicycle,” said Ada County Sheriff Matt Clifford. “The 100 Deadliest Days don’t have to end in tragedy — most of these crashes can be prevented if we all slow down, pay attention and look out for each other.”
Law enforcement agencies are continuing efforts to keep everyone safe.
“Boise officers are significantly increasing traffic enforcement efforts because our top priority is keeping everyone on our roads safe and preventing serious crashes before they happen,” said Boise Police Chief Chris Dennison. “We increased traffic stops 48% during the first four months of this year, and traffic-related citations are up nearly 50% compared with the same period last year. These enforcement efforts are focused on reducing risky driving behaviors like following too closely, failing to yield, impaired driving and distracted driving.”
“As we enter the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer, we’re reminding every driver that a single decision behind the wheel can change lives forever,” said Meridian Police Chief Tracy Basterrechea. “With more families, teens and travelers on the road, we’re asking our community to slow down, stay focused and make safety the priority every time you drive. Our officers will continue working to keep our roads safe, but preventing tragedies starts with each of us making responsible choices behind the wheel.”
According to the Idaho Transportation Department, 87 people lost their lives on the road between Memorial Day and Labor Day in 2025. Risk factors include speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving and failure to wear seat belts.
Summer months can be especially dangerous for young and inexperienced drivers as they begin spending more time behind the wheel. Local agencies are encouraging parents and guardians to talk with young drivers about speeding, distracted driving, seat belt use, and the importance of staying focused on the road.
“When the weather is nice, there are more people out recreating and doing all the fun things there are to do here in Idaho this time of year,” Ada County Paramedics Deputy Chief Janny Wing said. “We just want people to share the road, be courteous drivers and not be in too big of a hurry to get to the fun stuff. Let’s all enjoy the road and make sure everyone gets home safely to their families at night.”
Drivers are also being reminded to watch carefully for motorcycles, bicyclists and pedestrians, who may be out more often during the summer months and can be harder to see.
Agencies are reminding drivers to avoid distractions, buckle up on every trip and never drive impaired.
“Staying safe on the roadway is always a good move,” said COMPASS Executive Director Craig Raborn. “The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer are a reminder that traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
Local agencies will continue education campaigns and community outreach throughout the summer to reduce crashes and promote safe commuting habits.
