For the second straight year, traffic incidents in the U.S. make up a clear majority of officer deaths. It’s a solemn reminder of how dangerous our streets and freeways are for police officers, particularly in a vast geographic area such as Los Angeles.

Preliminary data from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) shows the number of officers killed in traffic-related incidents increased 17 percent during the first six months of 2009, from 30 to 35.

If the current rate continues, 2009 will be the 12th year in a row in which more officers are killed in traffic-related incidents than by any other cause. Traffic-related incidents include automobile, motorcycle and bicycle crashes, plus officers struck while outside their vehicles. At least six traffic-related deaths this year have involved drunk drivers.

2008 marked the first time in U.S. history that more than 50 percent of officer fatalities in a single year involved traffic-related incidents. Mid-year 2009, the percentage has remained at just above 53 percent, with automobile accidents accounting for nearly 40 percent of fatalities.

It’s a dangerous job to protect and serve. Be careful out there, on foot and in your patrol car.

Click here for more about the NLEOMF’s study, including a link to the mid-year report.