MARSHALL — As Minnesotans gear up for Independence Day, the Minnesota State Patrol is calling for increased caution on the roads following a sobering mid-year statistic: 159 traffic-related fatalities have occurred statewide through June 29.
“Unfortunately, that number represents more than statistics,” said Captain Casey Meagher. “It’s 159 families who won’t be celebrating with a loved one this weekend.”
Meagher stressed that the leading causes of fatal crashes remain largely unchanged with speeding, distraction, not wearing seat belts, and impaired driving. He emphasized that crashes are rarely due to mechanical failure or uncontrollable circumstances. “Very seldom do we see something that’s not created by the person behind the wheel or somebody inside the vehicle causing these crashes,” he said.
With summer in full swing, Meagher also highlighted the increased risks for vulnerable road users. “Bicycles, pedestrians… we don’t see them in crashes generally in the colder months,” he noted. “These are the months when we see a far greater risk to them.”
He urged drivers to stay alert, especially in residential areas and near parks, pools, and schools where children and families are more likely to be walking or biking. “If you’re avoiding distractions, you’re able to focus on the people that are out enjoying their walk or riding their bicycles to the pool or the grocery store. These are preventable tragedies.”
The State Patrol encourages all drivers to slow down, stay sober, buckle up, and pay attention behind the wheel as traffic increases over the holiday weekend.
