Minn. DPS: Record-Low Traffic Deaths In January

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) says January 2015 marked a record-low month for traffic deaths on Minnesota roads.

According to the DPS, last month was one of the safest since 1984, which was when the DPS began keeping statistics electronically.

Nine people lost their lives in January 2015, according to preliminary numbers. Other lowest monthly totals include January 2013 (16 deaths), January 2011 (15 deaths) and January 1991 (16 deaths).

"While it is important to highlight the decline in traffic deaths across Minnesota, we must not forget that statistics equal real people and at least nine families said goodbye to loved ones in January," Donna Berger, Office of Traffic Safety director, said.

January 2015 deaths include a 19-year-old man from Brookston, an Army veteran from McGrath, a 63-year-old man who died after a driver apparently ran a stoplight and a Hugo man.

Minnesota officials say the contributing factors to road fatalities include speed, drunken driving, distracted driving and lack of seat belt use, which accounts for about half of the motorists killed.

"The vast majority of crashes are preventable," Lt. Tiffani Nielson of the Minnesota State Patrol said. "We encourage all motorists to drive to the conditions of the road, wear your seat belt, pay attention and never drink and drive."