The number of traffic fatalities is up in Vermont this year, but state officials say they can’t point to a reason why.
There were 12 fatalities in June, up from seven in May and eight in April.
Through the first six months of 2008 there have been 45 fatalities.
Last year there were a total of 66 highway fatalities, the lowest figure since 1954.
Officials say the trend this year is in keeping with previous years: In 2006 there were 87 fatalities and in 2005, 73.
Steve Reckers of the Governor’s Highway Safety Office says speed is often a factor in fatal crashes.
Reckers says the best way to stay safe on the highway is slow down and buckle up.