DPS: 2014 Traffic Deaths Fall To Near Record-Low

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Traffic deaths decreased to a near record-low in 2014, according to figures released Wednesday by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

Officials said the number of traffic fatalities was at its lowest level since 1944.  There were 356 deaths, a big improvement from even earlier this decade, according to State Office of Traffic Safety Director Donna Berger.

Berger said while the numbers are down, there's still plenty of room for improvement, including when it comes to buckling up. She said about half of all motorists killed last year were not wearing their seat belts.

There's also been a significant drop on pedestrian deaths . There were 17 pedestrians killed in crashes last year, which is the lowest number since 1984. It's also down from 35 pedestrian deaths in 2013.

Five bicyclists died in crashes last year, which is down from six in 2013. Officials said 45 motorcyclists died in crashes last year, which is down from 60 two years ago.

August was the deadliest month for crashes last year, with 43 people killed.