Wisconsin Reports Fewer Traffic Accident Deaths

Drivers checking damages to their cars after an non-fatal accident
Wisconsin Reports Fewer Traffic Accident Deaths
Drivers checking damages to their cars after an non-fatal accident

As summer activities begin to wind down and kids prepare to head back to school, it is a good time to reflect on certain things that transpired this summer such as the number of fatal motor vehicle accidents in the state of Wisconsin. So far, the news is good.

Numbers released by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation indicate that despite the fact that the population of the state has grown, last month, the number of fatal automobile accident that occurred was down by 18 as compared to the previous year. A total of 39 people lost their lives in this manner. This is the second lowest the number has been since 1937. The lowest number of traffic fatalities for that time period—34, was recorded in 1943.

Looking at 2014, through the end of July, the number of fatal car accidents is down as well. The total number—252—is down by 31 as compared to the same seven months last year. Further, when one looks at the five year average the numbers are down even more, recording 50 fewer traffic fatalities compared to 2013.

The director of the DOT Bureau of Transportation attributes the lower numbers, in part, to the fight law enforcement officers are waging against drunk driving. At least one Wisconsin community will up drunk driving enforcement for a couple of weeks. Between the dates of Aug. 15 and Sept. 1, the “Drove Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign once again kicks into high gear. Whether it will make a marked difference remains to be seen.

Source: The Courier, “Our view, Fewer deaths on the roads more traveled,” Diane Graff, Aug. 14, 2014