1 year ago, a rash of deadly Minn. crashes

A deadly period on Minnesota roads happened just over a year ago.

Seventeen people were killed in four days in crashes from April 23-26, 2010. Of those killed, seven were teenagers - and only one of them was buckled up.

The fatalities included six people killed in a head-on crash in Cambridge and three teens killed in southeast Minnesota in a race between pickups.

Safety officials are using the anniversary of last year's deadly spring to urge parents to lay down rules for teen drivers during the prom and graduation seasons.

Officials say parents should set limits on nighttime driving and the number of passengers. They also should remind teenagers of Minnesota's primary seat belt law, and the ban on texting and all cellphone use for drivers under age 18.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.