‘Toward Zero Deaths’ Reminds Drivers to Slow Down and Drive More Safely

DULUTH, Minn. — Over the last two decades, the number of traffic-related deaths in Minnesota has declined by 37 percent through 2023.

The Toward Zero Deaths program in that same period has brought many different groups together to work on making roads safer and changing people’s driving behaviors and habits to reduce crashes.

On Tuesday, more than 80 regional traffic stakeholders from the Northeastern part of the state met in Duluth. They gathered to hear one another and to compare ideas about what programs or ideas have worked to help reduce crashes in their area.

One attendee, who has a great deal of experience in traffic safety is Minnesota State Patrol Captain Charles Lemon. He talked about how and where new ideas for safety come from. “Some of the European countries have really focused on this and have had great success in reducing fatal crashes, “said Lemon.  “We want to learn from them as well. It’s not a one-stop shop where we have all the answers. We seek it wherever we can because if we can find one idea or one goal that will help us save lives, we want to implement it.”

Lemon also talked about how his personal feelings have contributed to his dedication to the Toward Zero Deaths program.” It’s about perspectives, it’s about common goals, and really in all honesty the one thing about this group it’s about passion. We all want to save lives because in my career I’m the one that goes and does death notices.”

Be aware that there are many more law enforcement officers patrolling the roads on the 100 deadliest days lasting from Memorial Day to Labor Day.