INCREASE IN TRAFFIC FATALITIES

According to a recent release from the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), 2020 has seen an increase in traffic related fatalities compared to this time in 2019 in the Southeast District. The Southeast District is comprised of 25 counties in South Central and Southeast Missouri including Howell County and all surrounding counties.

At this time in 2019, the Southeast District had reported 68 crash related fatalities. The Southeast District is reporting a year-to-date a total of 82 crash-related fatalities. MoDOT has also reported a statewide increase in crash related fatalities (601 crash fatalities to date as opposed to 521 at this time in 2019). 

According to Troop G of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there have been three crash-related fatalities in Howell County this year so far as opposed to just one crash fatality in the boundaries of Howell County for the entirety of 2019. 

Based on these statistics, the West Plains Police Department issued a statement reminding the community of the importance of safe driving safe. Be sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a safety belt. While driving, obey all traffic signs and traffic laws such as not texting and driving, and not driving or letting someone drive impaired.