2023 will be over before we know it and it won't be long before people from all over the world (especially California) flock to the Treasure Valley to catch the famous potato drop. It's one thing you must experience at least once in your life. That is, unless, you think it's not worth going out at all this year...

Will this year be more dangerous for people in Idaho and California?

We must thank our first responders as much as possible this time of year; especially when you look at the danger they'll be protecting us all from throughout the holiday season.

One of the major threats, as revealed by a recent study, is none other than impaired drivers. According to Lending Tree, Idaho has one of the highest DUI (driving under the influence) rates in the entire country. The study says that there will be 2.33 DUIs per 1,000 drivers, placing Idaho eighth in the country for DUI rate.

California ranks even higher with 3.45 DUIs per 1,000 drivers earning California the number one ranking for DUI rate in the country.

What does this have to do with New Year's Eve?

The holiday season, especially New Year's Eve, is one of the best times to celebrate, let go of any baggage, and start off with a clean slate. If Idaho is in the top ten in the country for DUI rate, could that technically mean Idaho is among the least safe states in the country when people are out ringing in the New Year? Think about what it's like driving home in California on New Year's Eve - would you feel safe?

Thankfully, our first responders like Nampa Police, are already letting the public know that they will be out in full force to keep us safe.

Plan ahead and don't put yourself in a situation that can damage your life or someone else's forever. Be safe this holiday season!

Two Locals Discuss the TRUE Cost of Receiving a DUI in Idaho

DUI's are so common in Idaho, yet they are rarely talked about. Read what two locals have to say about their personal experiences of recently receiving this complicated charge.

Gallery Credit: Stephanie Gull

10 States With the Highest Rates of DUI Arrests.

Marketwatch.com looked at the FBI’s 2021 Crime in the United States report to find the 10 states with the most DUI arrests and the 10 states with the highest rates of these arrests per 100,000 people.

Gallery Credit: Kyle Matthews

10 States With the Highest Rates of DUI Arrests.

Marketwatch.com looked at the FBI’s 2021 Crime in the United States report to find the 10 states with the most DUI arrests and the 10 states with the highest rates of these arrests per 100,000 people.

Gallery Credit: Kyle Matthews

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