Dunn County crash data shows 4% decrease in incidents but rising distracted driving

Dunn County is witnessing a concerning trend in traffic safety, as recent statistics reveal a significant rise in statewide fatality crashes. As of March 2025, Wisconsin has recorded 89 fatalities from 84 crashes, marking a troubling increase compared to previous years. Dunn County's own numbers reflect a mixed picture, with five fatalities reported so far this year, consistent with the five crashes recorded.

Despite the alarming fatality figures, Dunn County has seen an overall decrease in total crashes, with 775 incidents reported in 2024, down from 805 in 2023. This represents a 4% reduction, with property damage and minor injury crashes also declining by 3% to 6%. However, the number of fatalities remains unchanged, indicating a need for continued focus on improving road safety.

Notably, aggressive driving incidents have increased slightly, while teen driving, speeding, and impaired driving cases have decreased. Distracted driving, however, has surged by 38%, raising concerns among safety officials. Additionally, pedestrian crashes have decreased by 10%, but bicycle crashes have seen a 50% increase, highlighting the need for targeted safety measures for vulnerable road users.

The meeting also addressed specific crash incidents, including a vehicle versus train collision that occurred in December, which is rare in the area. Discussions are underway regarding potential improvements to the intersection involved in this incident, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to enhance safety.

As Dunn County continues to analyze these trends, officials are urged to prioritize strategies that address the rise in distracted driving and enhance safety for all road users. The community's commitment to traffic safety remains crucial as they work towards reducing fatalities and improving overall road conditions.