The Minnesota State Patrol and the Office of Traffic Safetey are urging people who take to Minnesota roadways over Easter weekend to slow down and drive safely.
This week, the Office of Traffic Safety reported a surge in traffic-related deaths since mid-March with 28 deaths reported from March 16 through April 6.
24 fatal crashes led to 28 deaths on Minnesota roads since March 16 compared with 12 during the same time period last year.The main cause: speeding and careless/negligent driving.Drivers, do your part to help keep hospital beds available for those dealing with #COVID19.
— MN Traffic Safety (@MnDPS_OTS)
April 6, 2020 "I think the fact the roads have less congestion, it gives people the incentive to speed. It's why the Minnesota State Patrol is still out on the roadways during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Lt. Gordon Shank with the Minnesota State Patrol.
Lt. Shank says most of the crashes are caused by one of four different factors: speed, distracted driving, impaired driving, and a lack of seatbelt usage. Speeding is an issue the MN State Patrol sees as winter weather exits the state and dryer conditions prevail.
"Drivers need to drive at the posted speed," Shank said. "If it's 65, 60, or 70 drive at those speeds. Don't risk it by going above posted speeds. You have to drive smart."
Sunday could be a tricky day on the roadway as snow and rain are expected to fall.
