After 10 deaths in 4 days, NH wants drivers to ‘rethink’ habits

Ten deaths in four days on New Hampshire roadways. It’s a grim statistic that prompted a top state highway official Tuesday to call on drivers to “rethink their driving habits.” The announcement comes as state law enforcement has reported other high-risk driving that hasn’t led to fatalities, including a motorcyclist clocked at 158 mph near the Seacoast Monday.

“What’s happening on our roads is alarming and has resulted in tragic consequences,” said Eddie Edwards, assistant commissioner at the Department of Safety, in a statement. “But the unfortunate reality is many of these crashes could have been prevented by better decision-making.”

Better decision-making, Edwards said, includes obeying the speed limit, keeping eyes on the road, and choosing not to drive if impaired.

Among the youngest victims was an 8-year-old who died Friday after a vehicle crossed the center line on Route 106 in Loudon and crashed into an oncoming SUV, according to the Department of Safety. Between Friday and Monday, there were fatal crashes in seven other communities: Concord, Belmont, Alton, Center Conway, Jaffrey, Gilford, and Hampton Falls.

The causes of the crashes are being investigated by various law enforcement agencies. In a press release Tuesday, the Department of Safety said it is increasing state police enforcement on the state’s major interstates and highways.

As of Monday, there have been 59 crashes this year, leading to 64 fatalities, the Department of Safety said. During the same period last year, there were 10 percent fewer crashes but just one fewer fatality.

This story was originally published by the New Hampshire Bulletin.