FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky State Police report that 12 people died on Kentucky roadways as a result of vehicle crashes, from last Monday through this Sunday. Seven of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and six of those victims were not wearing seat belts.

The deadly vehicle crashes occurred in Harlan, Carlisle, Ohio, Hardin, Jefferson County and two in Pulaski County. The crash in Pulaski County was a double-fatality and involved the suspected use of alcohol.

Suspected use of alcohol also was a factor in an ATV fatal accident, in Clay County, and the victim was not wearing a helmet.

This past week, there were three motorcycle fatalities and two of the victims were not wearing a helmet. These crashes occurred in Harlan, McCracken and Graves counties. A pedestrain was killed in Warrren County.

Through August 10, preliminary statistics indicate that 461 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 68 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 354 motor vehicle fatalities, 218 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 54 motorcycle fatalities, 33 were not wearing helmets. Fourteen people have been killed in ATV crashes and 13 of those were not wearing helmets. Thirty-seven pedestrians have been killed. A total of 89 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.

C.J. Harte is a Correspondent for the Daily News. He can be reached via e-mail at charte@middlesborodailynews.com.