BOISE — The Idaho Transportation Department and Office of Highway Safety are joining communities statewide to recognize Teen Traffic Safety Week, October 19–25, 2025. The week raises awareness about safe driving habits among teens and their families.
Teen drivers face unique risks on the road and are 2.6 times more likely to be in a crash. OHS encourages families, schools, and organizations to focus on four key safety reminders:
- Buckle up: Seat belts save lives. Every trip, every time.
- Avoid distractions: Keep phones and other distractions out of reach.
- Drive sober: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction time.
- Practice patience: Teens gain confidence through experience and mentorship.
“Teen drivers are among the most vulnerable on Idaho’s roads,” said Josephine Middleton, Highway Safety Manager. “By educating young drivers and their families, we can reduce crashes and make our roads safer for everyone.”
Middleton adds, “Our children are always watching and learning from us. If we tell our teens not to text and drive but they see us doing it, how much credibility do we really have? The best way to teach safe driving is to model it ourselves.”
OHS promotes safe driving through several initiatives:
- Backseat Driver’s Manual: Created with local students, this activity book teaches kids about safe driving and encourages family conversations.
- SHIFT Idaho: A statewide platform offering resources, materials, and community involvement opportunities focused on safe teen driving.
- Parent-Teen Driving Contracts: Helps families set clear expectations and responsibilities behind the wheel.
- Alive at 25: A defensive driving course that teaches young drivers how to make safe, responsible decisions.
- Driver Education Partnerships: In collaboration with the Idaho Department of Education and local driving schools, OHS supports quality driver education statewide.