Laurel County has seen nearly twice as many fatal traffic accidents this year when compared to last year.
Curtis Smith, 41, lost control of his motorcycle on Kentucky 229 Friday night and died from his injuries. Smith was just one of the 17 people killed this year during traffic accidents in Laurel County.
Kentucky State Police Public Affairs Officer for the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement, Steven Douglas said there doesn't seem to be one specific reason for the increase.
“The trend here in Laurel County seems to be across the board,” Douglas said. “There seems to be some alcohol involved crashes, and seatbelt, helmet use... It's just kinda been hit and miss.”
Traffic Fatalities in Laurel County in the Past:
2011 – 8 fatal crashes
2010 – 19 fatal crashes
2009 – 14 fatal crashes
2008 – 15 fatal crashes
“Our officers are out in force, we're out patroling the highways,” Douglas said. “We're doing our jobs, and strictly enforcing the laws.”
But Douglas added they will be looking for ways to lower the number of fatal car crashes in 2013.
