The number of highway fatalities in Kentucky decreased for the first time in several years in 2022.
That’s according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Kentucky State Police, who say the 2022 count is the first time the count has decreased since 2018. Data indicates there were 744 fatalities in 2022, compared to 806 in 2021, which is a 7.6 percent decrease. Of those highway fatalities, 57 percent were not wearing a seat belt and 15 involved alcohol. Approximately 33 percent involved speeding or aggressive drivers and 20 percent involved driver distraction.
Pedestrians and bicyclists accounted for 109 deaths and motorcyclists accounted for 99 deaths.
Officials say the decrease is a positive sign, but they continue to urge motorists to practice safe driving behaviors to prevent even more avoidable deaths.
KYTC Secretary Jim Gray says, “Highway safety is about more than numbers – it’s about people. We will continue to work toward our goal of zero traffic deaths on Kentucky roadways through infrastructure improvements and partnerships with state agencies and the public.”