The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has approved Nevada's 2012 highway safety plan, citing several improvements in the state's safety record - including the fact that 94.1 percent of drivers are now using their seatbelts.
In addition, the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes who had illegal amounts of alcohol in their system has decreased from 144 six years ago to just 46 this past fiscal year. That fact qualifies Nevada for the Low Fatality Rate designation by NHTSA.
In addition, Trooper Chuck Allen, public information officer for the Nevada Highway Patrol, said serious injuries declined by 84 in fiscal 2011, speed-related fatalities decreased by 18, and the number of young drivers in fatal crashes went down by 13.
Gov. Brian Sandoval applauded the efforts of the NHP and the Department of Transportation to make Nevada roads safer for motorists and pedestrians.
"We have made great strides in traffic safety and I am confident that, with the continued cooperation and partnerships, we will continue to make our roads even safer," he said.
NDOT officials have begun a program they call Zero Fatalities in Nevada, emphasizing seatbelt usage, pedestrian safety and the reduction of impaired driving and crashes caused at intersections and by lane changes.
More information on the campaign is available at www.zerofatalitiesnv.com.