OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska saw its highest number of traffic fatalities in seven years in 2014, and some state officials believe that driver complacency may be to blame.
The Omaha World-Herald reports that 225 people died last year as a result of an accident involving a vehicle, according to the Department of Roads' Highway Safety Division. In 2007, 256 people died on state roads.
According to officials, the fatalities include 214 drivers and passengers, nine pedestrians and two bicyclists.
Nebraska's highway safety administrator, Fred Zwonechek, said that the fatalities were frustrating because of increases in traffic safety initiatives to increase driver awareness and law enforcement have been put in place. Zwonechek said that complacency leads to unsafe practices such as drinking and driving, speeding, talking or texting on a phone, or not being alert.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
Effingham woman killed Friday in Atchison wreck
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
Rural Horton man arrested on multiple drug charges
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Street lights to be discussed at Monday city meeting
Meteorologist Spencer: Geometric Watch means electronic disruptions
Two file to challenge local legislator
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
USD 430 Board accepts resignations, approves new hires
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Truck fire at CGB facility in Falls City
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
LATEST STORIES
Nemaha NRD Board appoints new Director
Johnson-Brock Board approves personnel changes
KS Omnibus Budget signed; funds mental health, economy, others
Pawnee City School to move forward with strategic planning
Falls City High School parking lot project approved
Annual fire hydrant flushing underway in Falls City
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
Plastic ducks set to race in Atchison Saturday