UDOT

Fatalities trending high, as July was the worst month to date for single-vehicle fatalities  

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) today released preliminary traffic fatality numbers for the 100 Deadliest Days, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities typically increase. 

Despite some positive trends, there has been a concerning number of crashes and fatalities. This summer, 95 people have lost their lives on Utah roads, compared to 81 fatalities last summer. With Labor Day weekend fast approaching, marking the close of the 100 Deadliest Days, UDOT and DPS are urging all Utahns to prioritize safe driving. 

“So many people will be out celebrating one of the last weekends of summer, and that brings a lot of extra traffic,” said Robert Miles, UDOT’s traffic and safety director. “It’s more important than ever to focus on safe driving. 

Single-vehicle and single-occupant fatalities have been particularly high this summer, indicating that behaviors such as distraction, speed, drowsiness, and impairment are all significant factors. These behaviors are ones that a driver has complete control over, and simple choices could prevent these crashes. 

Single-vehicle motorcycle crashes were particularly on the rise this summer. Motorcyclists must take responsibility for their safety—ensuring they are visible, honing their riding skills, and practicing defensive driving. While it is critical for drivers to remain alert and share the road with motorcyclists, most crashes involving motorcycles this summer have not involved another vehicle.

Pedestrian fatalities also increased – especially in July. Drivers and pedestrians have a shared responsibility to look out for and help each other. Pedestrians need to make eye contact with drivers, and drivers must watch for pedestrians.

UDOT and DPS remind all drivers to focus on the basics of safe driving—wear your seat belt, follow the speed limit, drive sober, drive alert and drive calm. 

“We want everyone to be bold enough to buckle up and demand that everyone in your car does the same,” said Jason Mettmann, DPS communications manager. “Make taking breaks and putting the phone down the norm. Be courteous enough to slow down and stay calm behind the wheel. Take responsibility for planning ahead and arranging for a safe and sober ride home. We all need to do a better job, not only looking out for ourselves but for everyone else on the road.”