Wis. Dept. of Transportation: Traffic fatalities in February were the lowest since 1937

March 5, 2014



For more information, contact:

David Pabst, director of the Bureau of Transportation Safety

(608) 266-3048, david.pabst@dot.wi.gov



Last month was the safest month of February in terms of traffic fatalities since monthly records were first compiled in 1937.



A total of 21 people died in traffic crashes last month, which was five fewer than February 2013 and nine fewer than the five-year average for the month of February, according to preliminary statistics from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).



The deadliest month of February occurred in 1968 with 73 fatalities.



As of February 28, a total of 56 people have died in traffic fatalities during 2014 including 13 passengers and nine pedestrians. Traffic deaths through February were 13 fewer than the same period last year and nine fewer than the five year average.



“With the frigid temperatures and snow storms last month, people reduced their driving, which helped curtail serious traffic crashes,” says David Pabst, director of the WisDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety. “Although winter seems like it may last forever, it won’t be long before we see more bicyclists, pedestrians, scooter riders, and motorcyclists traveling on our roads. Drivers will need to watch for them, especially at intersections and while making turns or lane changes. To prevent crashes, drivers should always eliminate distractions and pay strict attention to traffic conditions as well as the other roadway users around them. In addition, bicyclists, pedestrians, scooter riders, and motorcyclists must obey all traffic signals and other laws. We all must share the road.”