Massachusetts says the number of automobile fatalities in April remained about the same as last year even though traffic on major highways dropped 50%.
State Department of Transportation officials said 28 individuals died in crashes, compared with the month of April 2019 when there were 27 deaths on roadways in the state.
“Our traffic and safety engineers continuously monitor roadways across the Commonwealth and have identified a dangerous trend that has led to the doubling of the vehicular fatality rate in Massachusetts for the month of April,” said Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. “During the pandemic, everyone in the Commonwealth has sacrificed and used disciplined actions to keep themselves, their loved ones and our community safe. We ask that all residents use this same dedication to safety and reduce their speeds when driving.”
Jeff Larason, director of highway safety for the Executive Office of Safety and Security, added, “Reduced traffic volume is no excuse for excessive speed…We’re reminding everyone to drive responsibly, wear a seat belt, and watch the road for cyclists and pedestrians.”
The most recent road fatality was this past Saturday, May 2, on I-93 near exit 42 in Andover.