NHTSA: Preliminary stats show record-low fatalities in 2008

Jan 26, 2009

The number of people killed in traffic crashes will reach a record low in 2008, according to preliminary data (.pdf file) released Dec. 11 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

According to a news release, preliminary statistics indicate 31,110 people died in motor vehicle crashes from January through October, compared with 34,502 during the same period in 2007. This represents a nearly 10 percent decrease. The fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled for the first nine months of 2008 is 1.28, compared with 1.37 in 2007.

NHTSA also said seat belt usage rose to 83 percent in 2008 – the highest rate in history. Transportation officials estimate this increase has saved 2,700 lives since 2001.