In 2008, fatalities from motor vehicle crashes reached their lowest levels since 1961. The 37,261 deaths reported in 2008 represent a 14% decrease from the high of 43,510 in 2005. Fatalities are projected to decline again in 2009 (down to 33,963), representing a nearly 22% decline since 2005. In addition, the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in 2008 reached an all-time low of 1.25. This report was undertaken to identify factors that contributed to this historic decline in fatalities. (Author/publisher)
Abstract