Billings is a city located in Yellowstone County, Montana. With an estimated population of 109,595 residents, it’s the largest city in the state. If you’re a Billings resident, then you’re probably concerned about the safety of local streets. Your concern is warranted, as traffic fatalities are on the rise in Montana.
In 2019, overall traffic fatalities increased in Montana. Department of Transportation officials were surprised, as fewer cars were on the roads due to the pandemic. But in Yellowstone County, there were 18 fatalities in 2019. That’s a slight decrease over the 24 that occurred in 2018. However, even a small number is too many when it comes to death and human lives.
On a brighter note, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports a nationwide decline in traffic fatalities. In 2019, an estimated 36,120 people died as a result of traffic fatalities. That’s a decrease over the 36,560 people who died in 2018. If the downward trend continues, that will translate into fewer lives lost.
Would you like to improve your driving skills? A defensive driving course can possibly help. The course will reacquaint you with the rules of the road. You’ll also learn about the dangers of speeding and texting while driving.