State reports record low number of highway deaths

HARRISBURG — The number of fatalities on Pennsylvania highways in 2009 dropped to 1,256, the lowest number since recordkeeping began in 1928, PennDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E., reported Wednesday. The previous low was 1,328 in 1944; in 2008 the commonwealth saw 1,468 traffic fatalities. “I’m extremely pleased that the partnership among PennDOT, law enforcement and other safety partners is playing a role in reducing the number of lives lost on Pennsylvania’s roadways,” Biehler said. “Although we’re excited that motorists are driving safer than ever before, we can never lose sight that 1,256 loved ones lost their lives. We will continue to explore every option to help increase safety on Pennsylvania roads.”