MARSHALL — Minnesota State Patrol officials say preventable driving behaviors continue to contribute to fatal crashes across the state, as distracted driving becomes a focus in April.

Through the end of March, 60 people have died in traffic-related crashes in Minnesota, according to State Patrol Captain Casey Meagher. He emphasized that those fatalities represent more than statistics.

“These are families, these are tragedies that are avoidable,” Meagher said. “Things that we can as drivers on the road pay attention to and try to minimize.”

Meagher said the same core factors continue to drive serious and fatal crashes, including speeding, distracted driving, lack of seatbelt use and impairment.

“All of those things are controllable by every person inside a vehicle,” he said.

April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time when officials urge drivers to refocus on the road as seasonal changes bring more activity and distractions.

“As the weather starts getting nicer, it’s very easy for people to be thinking about other things,” Meagher said. “Our intent is to get everybody back to their primary task of driving.”

Distractions can go beyond cell phone use, he added, and may include eating, adjusting controls inside the vehicle, or even conversations with passengers.

“It’s anything that could take your attention away from that primary task of driving,” Meagher said.

With road construction season beginning across Minnesota, drivers are also reminded to stay alert for changing traffic patterns, lane shifts and detours. Meagher noted that fines can double in work zones when workers are present.

The transition into spring also brings more farm equipment onto rural roads. Drivers should be prepared for slow-moving vehicles and anticipate sudden turns, especially when visibility or equipment lighting is limited.

“Expect the unexpected,” Meagher said.

Officials are also urging caution as winter weather lingers in parts of the state. Meagher warned that icy conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses, can develop quickly and vary from one location to another.

“It might be fine in one spot and glare ice a mile down the road,” he said.

Drivers are encouraged to check current road conditions before traveling by visiting 511mn.org or using the state’s 511 app.

Meagher said staying focused behind the wheel remains the most important step drivers can take to prevent crashes.

“We want to make sure people are focused physically and mentally on that task of driving,” he said.