Idaho Driving Habits Make January One Of Deadliest Travel Months
Anyone who has a driver's license in southern Idaho knows how tricky it can be navigating icy area roadways. January is among the deadliest months in the Gem State for work commuting and road trips due to the fact that many Idaho drivers don't follow the one safety rule that is preached by law enforcement on television, radio, and social media.
I've become a much better winter driver in recent years. There was a time when I would just refuse to drive anywhere if there was snow on the ground. Maybe the fact I learned how to drive in a climate that rarely sees winter temperatures drop below 65 degrees has something to do with my overtly defensive driving style.
While southern Idaho winters are relatively mild compared to other states, avoiding snow while commuting to work is impossible during the winter. I've driven in some pretty awful conditions in my years. Highway 93 from Wells, Nevada, to Twin Falls, Idaho, can be every bit as sketchy as driving over California's Donner Summit when snow, decreased visibility, and heavy winds factor in. The majority of Idaho drivers I know have lead pedal feet and don't modify their driving habits to suit winter roadways.
December, January, and February of 2022 proved to be the three most fatal months for Idahoans on the road, according to Idaho Transportation Department data. Driving too close to other motorists, driving too fast, and not taking slick roadways into account are three of the worst habits Idaho drivers have in January, according to ITD information. The number of Idaho motor vehicle crashes has also been steadily increasing since 2020, according to the ITD.