Texas traffic fatalites at 17-year low

AUSTIN (AP) - State officials say traffic fatalities in Texas dropped 11 percent in 2009 to the lowest number since 1993.

Texas Department of Transportation officials released the data Tuesday.

Last year, there were 388 fewer traffic fatalities than in 2008. In 2009, 3,089 drivers or passengers died in traffic-related incidents.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributes the decline to safer vehicles, safer roads and motorists driving less. Officials also cite public safety campaigns about seat belt usage, drunk driving and distracted driving.

Officials said motorcycle deaths were also down 19 percent to 432 in 2009. Last year, 531 people died in motorcycle accidents.