BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – More than half of North Dakota’s motor vehicle fatalities in 2023 were caused by lane departure-related crashes, according to data from Vision Zero. The road safety initiative is urging drivers to stay vigilant and remain within their lanes to help prevent further accidents and reduce the rising toll of deaths and injuries on the state’s roads, a media release states.

Single-vehicle lane departure crashes, particularly prevalent in rural areas, are one of the leading causes of severe injuries and fatalities. These accidents typically occur when a vehicle crosses the edge or center line or leaves the road entirely, often at high speeds, resulting in serious consequences.

In response, North Dakota continues to implement enhanced road safety measures, including wider edge line pavement markings, curve warning signs, cable median barriers, and edge and center-line rumble strips. These improvements are designed to decrease the number of lane departure incidents statewide.

Drivers are reminded to take personal responsibility on the road by wearing seat belts, using child safety seats, adhering to speed limits, and avoiding distractions. Vision Zero emphasizes that by driving sober and staying focused, drivers can contribute to eliminating traffic-related deaths and serious injuries in North Dakota.