Vehicle Accidents Rising in N.D. Oil Boom Town

Authorities in the city that serves as the hub for North Dakota’s oil activity say vehicle accidents are on the rise. Statistics released by police in Williston show there were nearly twice as many accidents reported in October 2011 as compared to October 2010. The number rose from 78 to 131.

Estimated vehicle damage was more than $483,000 in October 2011 and about $200,000 in October 2010. Police Lt. Mark Bitz told the Williston Daily News that the numbers are due to increases in population and traffic in the area.