2014 Traffic Deaths Surpass 200, Still Down From Last Year
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Officials with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said Monday that while traffic deaths are down from this time last year, they've surpassed 200 for 2014.
Authorities said 204 people have been killed in traffic accidents in Minnesota this year, which is 16 fewer than this time last year. Of the 204 killed, 31 have been motorcyclists. That number is also down from this time last year.
The State Patrol said the top factors in fatal crashes are distracted driving, speeding, alcohol and drivers or passengers not wearing seat belts. In their most recent efforts to keep Minnesota roads safe, officers cited nearly 17,000 motorists in July for speeding. From May 19-June 1, the State Patrol's "Click it or Ticket" campaign resulted in nearly 11,000 seat belt violations and 279 child restraint tickets from 329 law enforcement agencies.
Law enforcement agencies across the state will be stepping up DWI enforcement now through Labor Day. Last year, more than 25,000 motorists were arrested for DWI.
