St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - There have been over 100 deaths on Minnesota roads in 2021, and it is the quickest the state has reached 100 traffic deaths in six years.

Preliminary figures from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety show that 102 people have died on Minnesota roadways since January 1st, compared to 82 last year at this time. The 100th death occurred on April 21st, which is the quickest the state has reached 100 deaths since 2015 when the state reached the mark on April 23rd.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety also noted that 21 percent of the 100 traffic fatalities were alcohol-related, and 40 percent were speed-related crashes. The DPS included that 38 percent of the 100 traffic fatalities were unbelted motorists.

“Excessive speed continues to take a horrific and preventable toll on our roads,” said Mike Hanson, Office of Traffic Safety director. “Alcohol, distraction, and no seat belts also continue to contribute to the loss of life in 2021. It doesn’t have to be this way, and every Minnesotan has the power to stop the heartache and make choices that keep everyone alive. Drive smart by slowing down, paying attention, planning a sober ride, and buckling up.”

Get our free mobile app

The first 100 traffic fatalities include 82 motor vehicle occupants, compared with 60 reported this time last year, and 22 deaths involving crashes with heavy vehicle trucks. According to the DPS, out of the 100 first fatalities on Minnesota roads, 70 percent were male.

Preliminary numbers show there were 394 traffic-related deaths in 2020, up from 364 in 2019, which was the lowest since 2014. Minnesota is on pace to eclipse all of those numbers in 2021.

11 of the Most Devastating Weather Disasters in Minnesota Throughout The Years

We might be full of lakes and "nice" but Minnesota has had its fair share of horrible and nasty weather. Throughout the years we've had floods, fires, storms that have crushed stadium roofs flat, and tornadoes that have destroyed lives.

More From Sasquatch 107.7 - The Rock of Rochester