2013 Wyoming Traffic Deaths May Fall Below 100

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Department of Transportation says the state has recorded 92 traffic fatalities in 2013 — the lowest number in years.

The 92 fatalities is the lowest number since 1945, when there were 71 traffic deaths — although numbers before 1980 are based on historical documents and aren't confirmed.

Highway Patrol Sgt. Stephen Townsend tells the Wyoming Tribune Eagle that visibility of law enforcement may have played a part in this year's number.

For the past several years, the highway patrol and local law enforcement agencies have had extra officers out during periods marked by a lot of drinking, such as the upcoming New Year's holiday.

Also. The Wyoming Governor's Council on Impaired Driving has been holding news conferences and releasing ads about the dangers of drunken driving. And there are several communities that have been offering safe rides programs.