Maine seeing increase in traffic fatalities this year

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – A busy summer season journey season is on the horizon, and Maine is already seeing a rise in site visitors fatalities this yr.

In line with the Maine Bureau of Freeway Security, site visitors fatalities to date this yr are already up 40% from the place they have been in 2021.

Forward of the vacation weekend, officers have a number of reminders to maintain you and your loved ones protected on the roads.

“Decelerate, put down your telephone, take note of the street,” mentioned Jim Tasse, Bicycle Coalition of Maine.

Director of the Maine Bureau of Freeway Security Lauren Stewart says the rise follows a nationwide pattern.

She says they suppose individuals received used to rushing with much less individuals on the roads in the course of the pandemic.

“So now that there’s extra automobiles on the market, they haven’t reverted again to protected driving conduct,” mentioned Stewart.

Stewart says they’ve already seen six bike fatalities and 5 pedestrians killed this yr.

Bike security teacher Kyle Newell encourages all motorcyclists to ensure drivers can see them.

“Put your self of their rear view mirror or their driver’s facet mirror or while you’re in site visitors, journey nearer to that centerline. That manner drivers can lean in direction of you, can see you as properly,” mentioned Kyle Newell, A&J Bike Security Faculty teacher.

The identical can apply for bicyclists.

“All the time driving on the correct. All the time obeying site visitors management units similar to cease lights and cease indicators and being predictable, utilizing indicators to point modifications in place or making turns,” mentioned Jim Tasse, Bicycle Coalition of Maine.

Officers remind everybody to share the street and restrict distractions whether or not you’re strolling, biking, or driving.

“Look earlier than you cross. Keep in mind, the crosswalk is the most secure place to cross, and that’s the purpose at which automobiles will yield to you,” mentioned Tasse.

Stewart says they’re persevering with to work with companions throughout the state to remind individuals to concentrate to their driving behaviors.

“Had been hoping people will bear in mind to buckle up and survive the Memorial Day actions,” mentioned Stewart.

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