Traffic stops are for our safety — and everyone else’s

Every day, our friends and neighbors who serve in law enforcement put their lives on the line. They kiss their families goodbye and go out to protect and serve our communities and state. Last month, a routine traffic stop in Idaho Falls for a turn-signal violation led to the confiscation of over five pounds of meth, cash, and multiple firearms from a driver. 

According to the CDC, over 36,000 people died in 2023 from drugs like meth. These officers likely saved lives on and off the road with that one stop. But even knowing the risk these officers faced, it’s hard to stop your heart racing when you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror.

Think about the last time you were pulled over. Were you speeding? Did you forget to signal? Maybe you’re one of “those people” who was sure the light was still yellow. What was that experience like for you?

For me, it happened a few years ago. I was rushing home from the in-laws with my family, trying to reach the grocery store before it closed. An officer followed us into the parking lot, but we didn’t even notice. My wife jumped out to make it inside with only two minutes to spare, but the officer asked her to get back into the car. 

After I explained the rush, he kindly allowed her to go in before the store closed. We got our milk, and I received a memorable reminder: officers are human, too. He was kind, professional, and understanding, even as he did his job, and he held me accountable for my actions.

Earlier this fall, Idaho State troopers did something similar when one officer pulled over a speeding driver on I-15 just outside of Idaho Falls. His stop found over two pounds of meth. The driver was also under the influence, endangering everyone on the road. 

According to UC Berkeley, nearly 11,000 people died in drug-related traffic crashes in 2021. This trooper’s routine stop may have prevented tragedy. But we sometimes forget that no traffic stop qualifies as routine for law enforcement. Deputy Tobin Bolter in Ada County had no idea that a “routine” traffic stop would cost him everything.

I know a traffic stop can feel frustrating. But the next time you’re pulled over, remember that the officer’s primary goal is one we all share. Law enforcement wants you and everyone else on the road to make it home safely. We certainly want the same for everyone who serves. These brave men and women are saving lives, one traffic stop at a time.