Number Of MN Traffic Deaths So Far In 2021 'Cause Alarm'

MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Department of Safety (DPS) is warning that if driving behaviors don’t significantly improve, the state "may face a tragic repeat of last summer." June through August 2020 was the deadliest three-month stretch in a decade.

However, there have already been 149 fatalities on Minnesota roads in 2021 compared, a 39 percent increase over this time in 2020. Those deaths came before the Memorial Day through Labor Day stretch, which marks the 100 most traveled days on Minnesota roads and are often the deadliest.

The rate of deadly crashes so far this year "cause alarm for summer travel," says the DPS.

Of the 149 deaths so far in 2021:

• 61 were speed-related
• 39 were unbelted motorists that died
• 3 were distracted driving-related
• 34e were alcohol-related

Eight people died in crashes during Memorial Day weekend 2020. To curb potential traffic deaths, Minnesota law enforcement is currently conducting extra seat belt patrols through June 6.

Officials are also offering the following tips for motorists:

If you are with a driver who is distracted, speak up, tell them to put the phone down and offer to be their designated texter.

Refuse to drive until every passenger is buckled up.

Slow down —trying to save a few minutes off your drive isn’t worth causing a crash.

Plan ahead before you go out by designating a sober driver, and if you see a person who has had too much to drink, speak up and find

Also read: Walz To Announce New COVID-19 Vaccine Incentives For Minnesotans