Road Deaths, DWI Arrests Spike July 4 In Minnesota

Celebrating our country’s independence is a time to come together with friends and family, but too often bad choices on the road leave a person humiliated by their actions.

July 4 is traditionally one of the worst holidays of the year for drunk driving. On average, 471 drivers will be arrested for DWI and eight motorists will be seriously injured in an alcohol-related crash.

With July 4 leading major holidays for DWI arrests per hour, police say Minnesotans should plan ahead for a sober ride before drinking at the lake or local celebrations.

Holiday DWI Arrests per Hour (2013-2017)

• Fourth of July – 3.9
• Labor Day – 3.8
• St. Patrick’s Day – 3.8
• Memorial Day – 3.6
• Thanksgiving – 3.6
• New Year’s Day – 3.3
• Christmas – 2.5

“With so many ride-share programs available, it’s frustrating to know many people continue to get behind the wheel after drinking,” said Lt. Tiffani Nielson, Minnesota State Patrol, in a statement.

“A DWI can change your life forever. Whether it’s financially or carrying the burden of taking a life, it’s not worth it. Line up a sober ride and celebrate the holiday responsibly.”

Extra Speed Enforcement

With the state’s reputation for unforgiving winters, Minnesotans may think more traffic fatalities take place during the winter months. In reality, the hot summer months lead to dry roads and drivers increasing speeds, which results in many more traffic fatalities.

To educate drivers on the dangers of speeding and aggressive driving, a statewide extra enforcement and awareness campaign will take place July 6 – 22.

• Preliminary numbers show 88 people were killed in speed-related crashes in 2017.
• During the 100 deadliest days (Memorial Day – Labor Day) in 2017, preliminary numbers show speed played a role in 23 fatalities.
• Cost of a speeding violation will vary by county, but it will typically cost a driver more than $110 with court fees for traveling 10 mph over the limit. Fines double for those traveling 20 mph over the limit and you can lose your license for six months for going 100 mph or more.

“On a daily basis, I receive fatality reports across Minnesota, and it’s amazing to me the high rate of speeds involved in fatal crashes,” said Mike Hanson, Office of Traffic Safety director. “The faster you go, the harder it is to stop for an unforeseen obstacle in the road or a car that stops unexpectedly. Driving faster won’t get you to your destination that much quicker, so sit back, slow down and enjoy the drive.”

Higher Speeds, Bigger Problems

• Greater potential for loss of vehicle control.
• Increased stopping distance.
• Less time for driver response for crash avoidance.
• Increased crash severity leading to more severe injuries and death.

If Confronted with an Aggressive Driver:

• Get out of their way; disengage.
• Stay calm — reaching your destination safely is your goal.
• Do not challenge them.
• Avoid eye contact.
• Ignore gestures and don’t return them.
• Report aggressive driving (vehicle description, license number, location).

A Deadly Start to the Summer Riding Season

The summer months tend to be the time when there are a greater number of motorcycle fatalities. Speed is the most cited factor in Minnesota single vehicle motorcycle crashes.

• Preliminary numbers show 24 motorcyclists have died on Minnesota roads in 2018 compared with 22 last year at this time.
• Out of the 24 motorcycle deaths in 2018, only six riders were wearing helmets.

"Riders should take safety into their own hands,” said Bill Shaffer, Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center Program Coordinator. “Wear brightly-colored protective gear, stay out of other drivers’ blind spots and stay focused on riding.”

Share the Road

Riders and motorists need to work together to share the road and make safe decisions to prevent fatalities.

Riders:

• Wear protective gear, including a DOT-approved helmet. Wearing brightly-colored gear helps you stay visible to other drivers, and it’s all that separates you from the road and other vehicles in case of a crash.
• Take safety into your own hands. Be prepared for inattentive drivers and other unexpected situations on the road. Stay focused on riding and keep your speed in check.
• Ride sober.
• Take a training course. Courses are available for beginner to expert riders now through September. They’re an opportunity to polish and learn life-saving maneuvers to keep you safe on the road.

Motorists:

• Always look twice for motorcyclists before entering a roadway or changing lanes. Motorcycles are smaller, so their speed and distance is difficult to judge.
• Give riders room to ride, pay attention and drive at safe speeds.

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