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South Dakota is one of nine states listed in Danger Mode when it comes to adequate road safety laws. That's from a new report calling attention to traffic fatalities, but a key state lawmaker says personal responsibility is still prioritized over policy.

Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety gave most states a mediocre grade for laws meant to keep motorists and pedestrians safe. But the findings are more critical of South Dakota, saying it only has a few promising statues.

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Otherwise, the list for recommendations is long, including elevating seatbelt violations to primary offenses.

State Representative Tony Randolph, R-Rapid City, chairs the House Transportation Committee. He said he doubts that a change would resonate with drivers in this state.

"Those who are interested in obeying the laws we have now, some do it based on the idea of just simple safety," said Randolph. "The ones who aren't going to, I don't think it matters what laws you pass. I think that's kind of where we're at."

Randolph cited the culture in a rural-centric state like South Dakota, which has long preferred personal choice over traffic-law overhauls. He didn't predict big changes next legislative session, but said he'd welcome a discussion about ways to keep teen drivers safe.

That's one of the main focal points of the report, which also says over the past decade, South Dakota has recorded more than 1,300 fatal crashes.

Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety President Cathy Chase said the physical and emotional pain from traffic crashes is the top concern. But in calling for tougher laws, she said policymakers need to consider another factor.

"These crashes incur massive economic costs," said Chase, "reaching an estimated $429 billion this year alone."

According to the report, South Dakota loses nearly $1 billion each year due to people being injured or killed in traffic crashes. Beyond lost workplace productivity and medical costs, property damage is measured when looking at the economic impact.

Among the bright spots for South Dakota, the authors credit the state for provisions such as all-driver text messaging restriction, and an open container law.