ISP: Drive-by gawking is dangerous

Rubberneckers created such a hazard last week at the scene of a 4-vehicle crash in Canyon County that Idaho State Police representatives are putting all Idaho residents on notice that this behavior creates a threat to public safety.

While at the scene of the injury crash on Interstate 84, ISP reports troopers witnessed about 30 motorists slow down to "get a good look at the crash” or to take photos and videos of the scene with smart phones, sometimes while driving at the same time.

The "scenario creates significant risks for other motorists, particularly in terms of unnecessary bottle-necking and increasing the likelihood of subsequent crashes,” says an ISP press release.

While taking photos and videos is not a violation of the law, ISP warns motorists that crashes caused by inattentive driving related to this activity could result in civil or criminal charges.