Despite statewide crash fatalities already reaching last year’s total with two months left in the year, the yearly average in Flathead County has increased only slightly in 47 years.

According to an analysis of statistics provided by the Montana Highway Patrol, Flathead County has averaged slightly more than 17 crash fatalities each year since 1965.

Between 2003 and 2012 , the average yearly number of crash fatalities is a little less than 19.

The highest number of crash fatalities in a single year was 30 in 2006. The low was six fatalities in 1966, although similar lows were reached in 1994 with seven fatalities and 2010 when nine motorists died on Flathead County roads.

Inter Lake records indicate there have been 10 road fatalities in the county so far this year.

Statewide as of Nov. 4, there have been 201 fatalities resulting from 176 crashes — 16 more fatalities than the same time last year in just two more crashes.

Crash fatalities on interstate highways are down from 34 to 25  while fatal crashes on rural and secondary roads have held steady and fatal crashes on urban roads have increased by three. However, deaths resulting from crashes on primary roads have risen from 69 to 91.

Alcohol was a factor in 12 fewer crashes, while speed was a factor in four more. Seat belts were not used by 17 more people killed in crashes than last year. Fatal crashes occurred on “other than dry” roads twice as often, occurring just 15 times by this time last year compared to 31 this year.

Pedestrians were involved in 18 fatal crashes, compared to seven in the same time last year. Single-vehicle crash fatalities also rose, up from 134 deaths in 127 crashes to 140 deaths in 125 crashes.

Out-of-state vehicles have been involved in more fatal crashes this year — 45 resulting in 49 deaths compared 38 crashes resulting in 42 deaths last year.