Idaho continues to face a growing challenge that threatens the safety of its residents and visitors: rising traffic fatalities. The alarming increase in deaths on Idaho’s roads calls for us to take road safety seriously. From dangerous stretches of highway, like Highway 55, to the rising trend of summer road fatalities, it’s clear that solutions are urgently needed.

Idaho’s Deadliest Year on the Roads in Two Decades

2023 marked a tragic milestone for Idaho as the deadliest year on its roads in two decades. According to the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), at least 277 lives were lost to traffic accidents, highlighting the critical importance of addressing road safety.

These fatalities affected all kinds of road users, including drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. The causes? A mix of dangerous driving behaviors, such as failing to maintain lanes, excessive speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving. These factors pose a significant risk for those behind the wheel and everyone sharing the road.

The human cost of these tragedies is immeasurable. For every life lost, a grieving family and a community are dealing with the emotional and economic toll. We can’t afford to ignore the importance of making our roads safer.

A Scenic Route with Serious Dangers

One of the most dangerous roads in the state is Highway 55, a scenic but treacherous route that connects Eagle to McCall. Recognized as the 23rd-most feared driving route in the country by a recent survey, Highway 55 is notorious for its landslides, rocky outcrops, and high accident rates.

One particularly perilous section near Smiths Ferry has been dubbed the “white-knuckle section” by the ITD due to its history of crashes. Between 2001 and 2021, there were 154 crashes in just one mile of this stretch, resulting in numerous injuries and several fatalities.

Efforts to improve the safety of this route are ongoing, with a $61.6 million renovation project aimed at stabilizing the hillside, installing guardrails, and widening the shoulders. While these improvements are essential, the frequent closures and hazards make it clear that Idaho needs to consider alternative routes to ensure safer travel.

Recent Tragedies and the Need for Action

In 2024, the danger on Idaho’s roads continues to escalate. Just this summer, Idaho saw 31 traffic-related deaths since late May, surpassing last year’s figures. Referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days,” the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day saw a spike in fatal crashes due to increased vacation travel. 

Law enforcement has stepped up DUI patrols, particularly around holidays like the Fourth of July, to reduce the number of impaired drivers on the roads. Still, patrols alone won’t solve the problem. We must do our part by driving responsibly and looking for safer alternative routes.

Advocating for Safer Roads

At Pathways Forward Idaho, we are committed to working with local communities, law enforcement, and policymakers to push for safer and more reliable travel routes across the state. We aim to advocate for better infrastructure, safer roads, and increased public awareness about responsible driving. The rise in traffic fatalities is a stark reminder that every life matters on Idaho’s roads.

Let’s Make Idaho’s Roads Safer Together

As Idaho grows and attracts more visitors, we must prioritize road safety. From improving dangerous routes like Highway 55 to educating drivers on the importance of safe driving, there’s a lot of work to do.

Let’s honor the lives lost by committing to safer driving practices and advocating for the infrastructure improvements needed to keep our