Traffic-related fatalities in the United States dipped to a record low in 2007 with 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles travelled. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were a total of 41,056 traffic deaths last year, a decline of 1,600 from 2006. This is the lowest on record for more than a decade.

The state of California enjoyed the biggest decline of 266 fewer fatalities than the previous year while North Carolina’s death toll increased by 121 fatalities over the past year. “Thanks to safer vehicles, aggressive law enforcement and our efforts, countless families were spared the devastating news that a loved one was not coming home,” Transportation Secretary Mary Peters said.

With improved features such as side airbags and electronic stability control, vehicles are safer than ever. Another important factor in the decline of traffic deaths is gas prices and an overall sluggish economy. As fuel prices continue to soar, Americans are driving less than ever which lowers the chances of fatal road accidents.

Source: CNN
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