Preliminary data show Ohio had a record-low number of traffic deaths in 2013.
The State Highway Patrol reports at least 923 people died on Ohio roads during the past year. Additional deaths are under review but have not been confirmed as traffic fatalities, making the possible total 981.
It would be the first time Ohio has had fewer than 1,000 traffic deaths since record-keeping began in 1936. The previous low was 1,016 in 2011. In 2012, Ohio had 1,122 deaths.
The patrol's superintendent says many factors contribute to improved safety, including law enforcement and educational efforts, better emergency medical care and improved engineering of vehicles and roads.
Col. Paul Pride says the decrease is a positive sign but acknowledges it's little comfort for those who lose loved ones in crashes.