Preliminary statistics* indicate that 15 people died in 15 separate crashes on Kentucky’s roadways from Monday, July 30 through Sunday, Aug. 5, 2012.

Twelve of the victims were traveling in motor vehicles and eight were not wearing seat belts. One was the result of a crash involving the use of alcohol.

Two of the fatalities were riding motorcycles. One was not wearing a helmet and one was the result of a crash involving alcohol.

One of the fatalities was riding an ATV and was not wearing a helmet.

Two single-fatality motor vehicle crashes occurred in Fayette County Single-fatality motor vehicle crashes also occurred in the following counties: Carlisle, Daviess, Hardin, Harlan, Harrison, Hart, Madison, Marion, Ohio, Pike and Rockcastle. One motorcycle fatality occurred in Henderson County and one in Jefferson County.

Through Aug. 5, preliminary statistics* indicate that 437 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2012. This is 19 more than reported for this time period in 2011. Of the 349 motor vehicle fatalities, 198 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 50 motorcycle fatalities, 27 were not wearing a helmet. Three of the four ATV fatalities were not wearing a helmet. Thirty-two pedestrians, one scooter/moped rider and one bicycle rider have been killed. A total of 71 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.