South Dakota’s 2019 traffic fatality count projected to be an all-time low

January 28, 2020

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS) today announced that South Dakota is projected to have recorded the lowest number of motor vehicle fatalities in state history during 2019.

To date, 102 roadway fatalities have been recorded for 2019. Since the department began keeping records in 1947, the previous low was 111 fatalities in 2011.

Public Safety Secretary Craig Price announced the preliminary numbers during today’s presentation at the House Transportation Committee meeting. While final numbers may still change, officials believe the 2019 final numbers will establish a new record low.

Price says South Dakota’s safety efforts have been aided by the fact that the public is making better driving choices coupled with enhanced vehicle safety and road designs.

In 2018, the state recorded 130 fatalities.