Speeding and other reckless driving behaviors continues to be a disturbing trend in 2021 according to the Missouri Department of Transportation.
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During the first quarter of the year, there were 176 fatalities in Missouri as a result of traffic crashes. Though down slightly from the first quarter of last year, officials remain concerned increases in speed observed during the early stages of the pandemic have carried over into 2021.
MoDOT preliminary reporting indicates excessive speed played a role in nearly one-third of the traffic deaths so far this year. In a recent work zone, law enforcement officers issued 79 citations including several drivers traveling over 100 miles per hour within just a few hours.
A high percentage of those killed in crashes were not using a seat belt. So far this year, 68% of the vehicle occupants killed in Missouri crashes were unbuckled. In pickup trucks, 88% of those killed were unbuckles.
Speed and lack of seat belt use are not the only concern. The number of fatalities under the age of 21 has increased by 58% during the first quarter. Also, 19 pedestrians have been killed in traffic crashes this year. Impairment and distraction are two of the most common factors in these crashes.
With April being Distracted Driving Awareness Month, all Missourians are being encouraged to take the Buckle Up Phone Down pledge.