While the whole state saw a reduction in highway deaths, there was a significant increase in these deaths in both Freeborn and Fillmore counties. Freeborn County went from four deaths in 2007 to 10 in 2008. Fillmore County went from zero traffic deaths in 2007 to 12 in 2008.
While each of the deaths were separate, there is concern by the sheriff departments in each county, with a hope that this is just a single year aberration. Alcohol was involved in many of the deaths, thus there can be an expected increased law enforcement effort in both counties.
As with any death in a Minnesota motor vehicle collision, there are a number of issues that will need to be reviewed. My partner, Joe Crumley, addressed this topic in a recent article for the Minnesota Lawyers Trial magazine. I was interviewed last year on the same topic.
