Highway deaths drop to lowest levels since 1950s

By KEN THOMAS, Associated Press Writer Ken Thomas, Associated Press Writer – 19 mins ago

The Transportation Department said Thursday that its projections show total traffic deaths declined nearly 9 percent in 2009 — to 33,963. That‘s the lowest toll since 1954. In 2008, an estimated 37,261 people died on the highway.

Highway deaths have dropped steadily since 2005, when an estimated 43,510 people were killed.

Safety experts attribute the reductions to increased seat belt use, progress in targeting drunken driving and more enforcement of traffic laws. Others point to the sluggish economy, which typically leads fewer people to drive.

The decline in roadway deaths follow similar patterns formed during the early 1980s and early 1990s, when difficult economic conditions led many drivers to cut back on discretionary travel.

Side air bags that protect the head and midsection are becoming standard equipment on many new vehicles and electronic stability control, which helps motorists avoid rollover crashes, is more common on new cars and trucks.

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National Highway Traffic Safety Administration‘s report on traffic fatalities:

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