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The number of fatal crashes on South Dakota roadways is once again rising after a drop in 2011.
According to Lee Axdahl, Director of the Office of Highway Safety, this year's statistics are a sobering reminder of how dangerous the roadways can be.
As of August 6, there have been 63 fatal crashes in South Dakota. Last year at this time, there were 48. Of the 63, 28 were alcohol related and 18 involved speed. In 2011, 14 involved alcohol; speed played a factor in 11.
As of August 3, the state has seen 12 motorcycle fatalities. That's compared to 14 all of last year.
Not all of July's crashes have been counted yet but, Axdahl does believe total crashes are up this year.
However, 2012's numbers are still less than the six-year average. Over the six years, the average of fatal crashes is 81 for this point in the year.
Axdahl says 2011 was an odd year that produced much lower numbers.
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