CARSON CITY, Nev. – While the number of statewide traffic deaths dropped slightly in the first half of 2014 compared to the same time last year, traffic fatalities in many rural Nevada counties saw a staggering increase, the Nevada Departments of Public Safety and Transportation report.
Preliminary numbers show that 124 traffic fatalities occurred on Nevada roads in the first half of 2014 through July 7, a decrease of nine deaths over the same time last year. But, amid a statewide decrease, eight Nevada counties saw an increase in traffic fatalities during the first half of 2014:
Elko 800% increase: 8 fatalities in first half of 2014, 0 fatalities in first half of 2013
Lyon 600% increase: 6 fatalities in first half of 2014, 0 fatalities in first half of 2013
Eureka 300% increase: 3 fatalities in first half of 2014, 0 fatalities in first half of 2013
Humboldt 300% increase: 4 fatalities in first half of 2014, 1 fatality in first half of 2013
Lander 300% increase: 3 fatalities in first half of 2014, 0 fatalities in first half of 2013
Churchill 100% increase: 1 fatality in first half of 2014, 0 fatalities in first half of 2013
Storey 100% increase: 1 fatality in first half of 2014, 0 fatalities in first half of 2013
Washoe 100% increase: 22 fatalities in first half of 2014, 11 fatalities in first half of 2013
“These are so much more than numbers. The loss and toll on individuals and families is monumental for each and every traffic fatality, which is why Nevada’s goal is zero fatalities,” Nevada Department of Transportation Director Rudy Malfabon explained. “We continue working together to put strategies in place to save lives and prevent serious injury. Specifically in rural areas, we install centerline rumble strips and put many other traffic safety enhancements in place. But, traffic safety ultimately relies on each and every person on the road, and we’re reminding everyone to be safe every time they’re on the road.”
“This year, we’ve also seen a statewide increase in traffic deaths involving motorcycles,” Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Jim Stewart added. “It’s just another reminder of how important it is to pay attention and share the road at all times. That means always watching out for other vehicles and pedestrians and always focusing on the road. And of course, wearing a seat belt is a must; every trip, every time.”
Overall, Nevada traffic fatalities dropped to 267 in 2013 after reaching an all-time high of 432 in 2006 when the Nevada Strategic Highway Safety Plan was developed. The plan brings Nevada traffic and safety advocates together to implement strategies for cutting the yearly traffic fatality average in half by 2030, with the ultimate goal of zero traffic deaths on Nevada roads.
Motorists should always follow these safe driving tips:
Always Buckle Up
Don’t Drive Impaired
Be Pedestrian Safe
Focus on the Road
Stop on Red
To learn more about Nevada traffic safety, log on to www.zerofatalitiesnv.com.