Nebraska crashes unexpectedly low during ‘100 deadliest days of summer’

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Officials call the time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 deadliest days of summer.”

Bill Kovarik, administrator of the Nebraska Highway Safety Office, said crashes can increase by 15% or more in the state during that time.

He attributes that to the many events held throughout summer — and people drinking alcohol.

In 2022, 37% of fatal crashes in Nebraska involved impaired driving.

And Kovarik said crashes involving drivers who are under the influence are more deadly.

“Obviously, your judgment is more impaired, so when people are impaired, they’re driving more dangerously at higher speeds, less carefully, less attentive to distractions or other issues on the road, too,” he said.

But Kovarik said this summer has not been typical.

Traffic has returned to its pre-pandemic levels.

“But our crashes, and right now our fatalities, are down about 15% from what they were last year.”

He said the Highway Safety Office works with law enforcement closely during June, July and August to keep people safe.

But with concerts, fairs, ballgames and holiday events, he said people are more likely to decide to get behind the wheel when they’ve had a couple drinks.

“There should be no excuse for anybody to drive or thinking they should drive after they’re impaired,” Kovarik said. “So make that plan before you go out and about and start partying.”

He said people should keep in mind that a DUI can cost thousands – and that’s not including the possibility of injury or death to yourself or others.

Visit the Highway Safety Office website for a full breakdown on the most recent crash statistics in Nebraska.