Road Death Numbers Remain Steady

Minnesota road fatality numbers are about the same as last year, according to the Department of Public Safety in the state.

As of Saturday, over 200 deaths had been reported in Minnesota. In 2015, there had been 201 traffic deaths by July 20.

More pedestrians were killed in accidents in 2016 than motorcyclists, however. Numbers are down to 27 motorcyclists killed as opposed to 37 in 2015. In addition, pedestrian deaths rose from 16 to 26 this year.

Authorities say drunken driving, failure to use seat belts, distracted driving and speeding are major contributors in these fatalities. They added that these issues are all preventable.