Safety >

Motorist and pedestrian safety

Reducing fatalities and injuries from traffic crashes is a top priority of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). Traffic fatalities in particular have been trending upward in the past several years. In 2003, motor vehicle crashes killed 840 people in Wisconsin, the highest yearly total since 1981. It's a trend the department aims to reverse by taking effective steps, including strict enforcement of traffic laws and promoting safe driving behavior through public education and information.

Why are people dying?
Too many in Wisconsin are still not wearing their seat belts. Alcohol plays a role in a large number of fatal crashes. Speeding contributes to far too many highway deaths.

What can you do?
The biggest factor in preventing driver fatalities is driver behavior. WisDOT can't control that. It's up to you, the driver! Driver error causes 85% of all our motor vehicle crashes.

Questions about the content of this page:
Randy King, randy.king@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: September 21, 2005