The most dangerous place to drive in Minnesota is not the busy interstates and downtowns of the Twin Cities. It's in rural areas. Each year, 70 percent of Minnesota's total traffic fatalities occur on rural roads. Why are rural roads more deadly? Riskier road conditions: two lane roads mean greater risk for head-on collisions and unsafe passing; narrow shoulders and poor lighting at night. 75% of alcohol-related crashes occur outside the Twin Cities. There is a greater risk of a crash due to wildlife on the highway. Drivers have a false sense of security thinking that it is safer on country roads due to lighter traffic. Seat belt use is lower. Each year, 80 percent of the unbelted traffic deaths occur in greater Minnesota, and pickup truck drivers have the lowest seat belt compliance rate. Properly wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury to front seat passenger occupants by 45 percent in a car and 60 percent in a light truck. Seat belts are the most effective means of protecting oneself from injury while riding in a vehicle. From April 2-8, there will be enhanced enforcement of seat belt use in rural Minnesota. Remember to buckle up and make sure kids are secured properly and in the proper child passenger safety restraints.
Jessica Schleck
Dodge County Public Health
Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST)
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