Ask a Trooper: Stay safe during the 100 deadliest days
Jun. 3—By Sgt. Troy Christianson
Question: I caught part of the news the other night and heard something about the 100 deadliest days. Can you get me more information on that?
Answer: I certainly can. Here is some information we shared on the Minnesota Department of Safety blog. The Minnesota State Patrol is urging drivers to make smart, safe decisions as the state enters what is known as the "100 deadliest days" on the road.
This stretch, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, is the most dangerous time of year to travel in Minnesota. It coincides with peak travel nationwide and a troubling spike in fatal crashes.
In 2024, Minnesota saw 151 traffic deaths during this period. By year's end, at least 479 people had died on the state's roads.
"Our troopers work hard every year to keep fatalities down, but last summer was especially hard," said Minnesota State Patrol Col. Christina Bogojevic. "These are not just statistics — they are lives, families and communities forever changed."
The four main contributors to fatal crashes remain consistent: speed, alcohol, lack of seat belt use and distraction. Last year, each played a major role in Minnesota's traffic deaths:
—Speed: 138 fatalities
—Alcohol: 124 fatalities
—Unbelted: 108 fatalities
—Distraction: 29 fatalities
"These are the leading killers on our roads," Bogojevic said. "And we see the consequences play out every day — in the Twin Cities and rural counties across Minnesota."
She said troopers continue to encounter drivers making dangerous choices — speeding down highways, texting behind the wheel, not buckling up and driving impaired.
The state patrol and more than 300 agencies across Minnesota plan to increase enforcement over the summer. Expect more patrols, targeted campaigns and greater coordination with local agencies.
"If you're speeding, driving impaired, unbelted or distracted, expect to see us," Bogojevic said.
But law enforcement says it can't turn the tide alone. They are asking all Minnesotans to do their part.
—Slow down and give yourself time to get where you're going
—Stay off your phone
—Buckle up — everyone, every time
—Never drive impaired, by alcohol or drugs
"If every driver made those choices, we could flip the script," Bogojevic said. "This summer doesn't have to be deadly. It can be the safest."
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