Traffic Deaths in Delaware Below 100 in 2013

State officials say traffic deaths last year fell below 100 for the first time since 1963.

The Office of Highway Safety said Friday that there were 99 traffic fatalities in Delaware in 2013. That’s compared with 116 fatalities in 2012. 1963, when there were 96 traffic deaths, was the last year the state saw fewer than 100 fatalities.

Preliminary reports also show that 36 percent of 2013’s traffic deaths were alcohol-related.

Officials say that while seatbelt use is at an all-time high of 92 percent, fewer than half killed when driving or riding in vehicles were wearing seat belts.