Traffic deaths were down during eight months in 2006, with greatest decline occurring this December.

Traffic fatalities in Colorado decreased by 12.2 percent from January 1 through December 31, compared to the full year in 2005, announced the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). According to preliminary reports through December 31, 532 people died in traffic crashes on Colorado highways, compared to 606 such deaths during the full year in 2005 and 667 such deaths during the full year in 2004.

"Traffic deaths have not been this low in the state since 1992 so this is very good news for Colorado," said Pam Hutton, CDOT's Chief Engineer. "We have seen decreases in eight months of this year and December marks another great reduction in deaths."

Traffic deaths dropped in the following months in 2006, compared to the same months in 2005: January, February, March, April, June, July, September and December. As of today, there were 32 traffic deaths during this December, compared to 55 such deaths in all of December 2005. Last December, 47 drivers and passengers lost their lives in traffic crashes and nearly 62 percent did not use seat belts. In addition, seven pedestrians and one motorcyclist died. The motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet.

One-fourth of the traffic fatalities last December took place in two counties. Adams County saw nine deaths; eight of the victims were drivers and passengers and seven of them did not use seat belts. One victim was a pedestrian. Five people died in La Plata County. All of the victims were drivers and passengers and none of them used seat belts.

"All Coloradans are urged to buckle up on every trip," said Hutton. "Drivers should make sure that child passengers are properly restrained in child safety seats, booster seats and seat belts appropriate for their age and size. And as always, we should all ensure that our family members and friends have a sober driver behind the wheel so we continue this trend of reducing fatalities on Colorado highways."

Drivers who need assistance using child safety seats and seat belts correctly with children cancontact CPS (Child Passenger Safety) Team Colorado and find a Fit Station or technician at www.carseatscolorado.com or call 1-877-LUV-TOTS (877-588-8687) for assistance. CPS Team Colorado is a project funded by CDOT and administered by the Colorado State Patrol.