Lane departures leading cause of deadly North Dakota crashes 

(Bismarck, ND) -- The North Dakota Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to pay attention when on the road.  

A preliminary report shows more than half of deadly crashes in the state last year were related to lane departures.  

This is when a vehicle crosses into another lane or drifts out of its travel lane.  

Officials say these kinds of incidents are often very serious because people are typically driving at high speeds.  

The state is urging residents to take extra precautions on the roads by wearing a seatbelt, following speed limits, and avoiding distracted driving.