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Kentucky Vehicle Fatalities Increase In 2020 Despite Covid

transportation.ky.gov

Kentucky saw a significant increase in vehicle fatalities during 2020. The state’s Office of Highway Safety says initial data indicates there were 778 fatalities last year, compared with 732 in 2019.  The increase in fatalities came despite major disruption to the travel industry due to the coronavirus pandemic.

State Transportation Department Spokeswoman Erin Eggen says fewer vehicles doesn’t necessarily equate to fewer highway deaths. “It doesn’t matter how many cars are on the road sometimes.  It matters what you are doing when you’re behind the wheel.  Your behavior behind the wheel is what matters, no matter how many people are on the roadway.  Whether it’s just you, being a responsible driver is the most important thing you can do to keep yourself safe,” said Eggen 

Of the fatalities in 2020, 57% were not wearing a seat belt and about 16% involved alcohol.   Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray says the number of unrestrained deaths in 2020 is particularly concerning, up almost six percent from the previous year.   A final report is expected in April. 

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