The number of traffic deaths in Nebraska increased by 15% in 2022.
Speeding, distracted driving and the failure to use seat belts were seen as the main culprits of the increase.
The 254 traffic deaths on Nebraska roads were 33 more than what was recorded in 2021. It was the highest total of traffic deaths in the state since 2007.
From 2017 - 2021 Nebraska averaged 232 traffic fatalities annually. The increase of 9.5% above the average was similar to the national trend.
165 of the fatalities were on rural roads. Traffic fatalities in urban areas jumped from 56 in 2021 to 89 last year according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation's Highway Safety Office.
The Nebraska State Patrol reported 938 citations were issued in 2022 to people driving 100 mph or more. It also appears that seat belt use is down another 5%.
The Nebraska Highway Safety Office indicates Nebraska had only about 76% of front-seat passengers buckling up, that figure is down 10% from 2017.
Motorcycle and pedestrian deaths also rose on Nebraska roads in 2022. There wer 30 motorcycle fatalities, an increase of 9 from the previous year. The 24 pedestrian deaths in 2022 were up from 15 in 2021.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
LATEST STORIES
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Tuition increase by KU, others in state
KS grad requirements updated after two decades.
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Potts first to file for Sheriff's seat in Atchison Co
Senator Slama won't endorse candidate in legislative race
Local author brings "Broken and Chained" to Falls City Saturday