Preliminary reporting for 2020 indicates Missouri traffic fatalities increased by 12 percent compared to the previous year. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 989 lives were lost in Missouri traffic crashes in 2020, up from 881 in 2019.

A news release says despite traffic volumes in the state being significantly down for much of the year, Missouri experienced its largest number of traffic fatalities since 2007. In particular, there were notable increases in unbuckled and speed-related fatalities, with both experiencing approximately a 25-percent increase from the previous year. In 2020, 67 percent of drivers and passengers killed in car crashes were unbuckled; and preliminary numbers indicate 389 people were killed in crashes involving excessive speed or driving too fast for conditions. In addition, there were 126 pedestrians killed in 2020- the largest number of pedestrian fatalities ever recorded in Missouri.

Missouri’s new strategic highway safety plan, “Show-Me Zero, Driving Missouri Toward Safer Roads,” identifies four key focus areas to help turn the tide: occupant protection (seat belts, car seats and helmets); distracted driving; speed and aggressive driving; and impaired driving. More than that, the plan identifies ways all Missourians can help reduce the number of fatalities on Missouri roadways. Show-Me Zero includes strategies for families and individuals as well as groups such as schools, businesses, local public agencies, law enforcement, health organizations, and statewide officials.

MoDOT State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Nicole Hood says ultimately, success will be dependent upon everyone’s willingness to take personal responsibility for safely using the transportation system and demanding others do the same.

Show-Me Zero highlights four simple actions drivers can take to improve safety on Missouri’s roads: Buckle up. Put the phone down. Slow down. Drive sober.