ST. PAUL – Speed-related fatalities last year climbed above 100 for the first time since 2008, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (DPS-OTS).

Preliminary reports show 113 motorists died on Minnesota roads in 2018 in speed-related crashes, the most since 2008, when there were 125 deaths.

Officers, deputies and troopers will work overtime shifts during a statewide extra speed enforcement period from June 18 through July 21. More than 300 agencies will participate in the speed campaign coordinated by the DPS-OTS.

“The sunny skies and dry roads are a welcome sight after months of dreary weather in Minnesota, but there’s no summer vacation when it comes to safe driving behaviors behind the wheel,” said OTS Director Mike Hanson. “Going the speed limit and slowing down in construction zones are critical to us all coming home to our loved ones at the end of the day.”

Extra speed enforcement

During the 100 deadliest days (Memorial Day–Labor Day) in 2018, preliminary numbers show speed played a role in 30 fatalities. Speed was a contributing factor in 23 percent of single-vehicle crashes last year.

The cost of a speeding violation will vary by county, but it will typically cost a driver more than $110 with court fees for traveling 10 mph over the limit. Fines double for those traveling 20 mph over the limit and you can lose your license for six months for going 100 mph or more.

Summer riding season deadly for motorcyclists 

The summer months tend to be the time when there are a greater number of motorcycle fatalities. Speed is a leading factor in Minnesota single-vehicle motorcycle crashes.

Preliminary numbers show 11 motorcyclists have died on Minnesota roads in 2019 compared with 14 last year at this time. Out of the 11 motorcycle deaths in 2019, three riders were wearing helmets.

“Riders need to make sure they’re ready to ride every time they get on their bike,” said Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center Program Coordinator Bill Shaffer. “That means wearing brightly colored protective gear, riding at safe speeds and taking steps to stay visible to other drivers.”

Motorists should always look twice for motorcyclists before entering a roadway or changing lanes. Motorcycles are smaller, so their speed and distance is difficult to judge.