Minnesota saw more speed-related traffic deaths in 2018 than  each year in the last decade.

According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety, 113 motorists died in 2018 from speed-related crashes.

That is up from 88 in 2017 and is the first time to surpass 100 since 2008.

In an effort to curb this, law enforcement officers will work overtime shifts June 18 to July 21 in a stepped-up enforcement campaign targeting speed.

“The sunny skies and dry roads are a welcome sight after months of dreary weather in Minnesota,” said Mike Hanson, Office of Traffic Safety director. “But there’s no summer vacation when it comes to safe driving behaviors behind the wheel. Going the speed limit and slowing down in construction zones are critical to us all coming home to our loved ones at the end of the day.”

According to a press release, speed was a contributing factor in 23% of single-vehicle crashes in 2018.

Higher speeds lead to a higher likelihood that a person will lose control of a vehicle and require increased stopping distance. It can also lead to increased crash severity, leading to more severe injuries and death.

The release stated summer months tend to be the time when there are a great number of motorcycle fatalities. Speed is a leading factor in Minnesota single-vehicle motorcycle crashes.

Preliminary numbers show 11 motorcyclists have died on Minnesota roads in 2019, compared with 14 last year at this time. Of those who died this year, three riders were wearing helmets.

“Riders need to make sure they’re ready to ride every time they get on their bike,” said Bill Shaffer, Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center Program coordinator. “That means wearing brightly colored protective gear, riding at safe speeds and taking steps to stay visible to other drivers.”

 

Speed-related traffic fatalities

2008: 125

2009: 85

2010: 86

2011: 85

2012: 74

2013: 76

2014: 94

2015: 78

2016: 89

2017: 88

2018: 113

— Information from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety