Families mourn as Minnesota reaches the highest number of traffic deaths since 2007; 497 lives lost
Yes, 497 is the highest number of traffic fatalities since 2007 when there were 510 traffic deaths, according to preliminary figures reported by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety.
Minnesota averaged 378 traffic fatalities a year from 2016-to 2020.
Minnesota reported the first traffic fatality of 2022 on New Year’s Day when a 51-year-old unbelted male driver was killed in Goodhue County. Alcohol and driving too fast for the conditions are suspected in contributing to the crash.
Sadness and Anger
“I’m saddened knowing how many families lost a loved one in a traffic crash in 2021,” said Mike Hanson, Office of Traffic Safety director. “With sadness, there is also anger. Anger that so many motorists are taking the privilege of driving for granted...