Idaho is a gorgeous state with stretches of winding roads that go through farmland and picturesque views. It also isn’t densely populated, which can make it feel like you have the road all to yourself.
This is a dangerous mentality, and you shouldn’t get complacent about paying attention and following the rules. If you encounter a driver on the road who doesn’t follow Idaho’s driving laws, you could very well end up injured.
That’s why it’s important to know and adhere to Idaho’s driving laws; it allows you to protect yourself, both in a physical and a legal sense.
Specific Rules in Idaho
When you’re driving in Idaho, it’s important to keep these rules in mind. Encourage any other motorists you know to do the same.
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Seatbelts: Drivers and passengers in Idaho all have to wear seat belts or some form of passenger safety restraint. All children 6 or under have to be in a child safety restraint.
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Drunk driving: Drivers 21 and over are not allowed to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08, and the limit is even lower for drivers under 21—it’s 0.02. The installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) isn’t necessary for the first offense, but it is mandatory for the second one.
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Open container laws: Open containers of alcohol are not allowed to be in any part of the car where the driver and passengers can access them. However, they can be transported in the trunk of the car or behind the last row of seats in a vehicle (this would apply to a minivan or similar vehicle).
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Distracted driving: Distracted driving is considered to be anything that takes a driver’s attention off the road. A common type of distracted driving is texting while driving, though many states have laws against that. In Idaho, texting while driving is illegal, though talking on a cell phone is not.
Open Container laws and Your Idaho Auto Accident
Here’s a scenario that reflects why it’s so important for every driver to follow the law. Imagine you’re going at the speed limit on a road in Idaho when a driver collides into you from behind. You end up with a concussion and broken ribs.
Later, it comes to light that the driver who hit you also had an open container of alcohol in the front seat with him. That information may allow you to file a viable personal injury claim.
Since Idaho is an at-fault state, it’s particularly important for you to be able to prove that the other driver was at-fault.
Having an accident in an at-fault state means that you have the option of filing with your insurance company, filing against the liable party, or simply filing a personal injury claim. Talk to an attorney; he or she will give you a good sense of which option makes the most sense for you.
Find an Attorney Who Can Help You
An experienced Idaho personal injury attorney could make all the difference for your case. You shouldn’t continue to suffer if someone broke Idaho’s driving laws and injured you as a result.
Having a personal injury lawyer can help you figure out your next steps and put you on your way to getting the financial compensation you deserve.
