An analysis of the significant decline in motor vehicle traffic fatalities in 2008.

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)