This year's Lee County crash data reveals important information about your commute

Traffic deaths in Lee County have dropped significantly this year, but a new report highlights key risks during afternoon commutes.

Data from the Metropolitan Planning Organization shows that from January through mid-June, 23 people have died in crashes. At the same point last year, that number was 61, and the year before, it was 72.

The county is also seeing fewer life-changing crashes, with serious injuries down 37% compared to five years ago.

The report emphasizes that the afternoon drive home, especially around 4 p.m., is the most dangerous time of day, surpassing the morning rush.

The two biggest dangers are intersections, where the most deadly crashes occur, and "lane departures," which involve cars drifting off the road or out of their lane.

Leaders said the progress is encouraging but stressed that until the number of deadly crashes reaches zero, there is still more work to do.