Fatal traffic accidents nationwide declined last year to their lowest level since 1954, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

As reported earlier this month by the New York City car accident lawyers at Queller, Fisher, Washor, Fuchs & Kool , the economic downturn is believed to be partly responsible for the reduced congestion and reduction in traffic accidents.

Preliminary figures released by the federal government indicate a total of 33,963 people were killed in fatal traffic accidents in 2009 -- an 8 percent reduction from the 37,261 who were killed in traffic accidents in 2008.

The overall fatality rate, which is based on vehicle-miles driven, is expected to be the lowest ever recorded when the government releases its comprehensive annual report this summer.

"This is exciting news, but there are still far too many people dying in traffic accidents," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Drivers need to keep their hands on the steering wheel and their focus on the road in order to stay safe."

In addition to fewer drivers on the road, the federal government cites several highly visible safety campaigns as having an impact on the nation's highway death toll, including "Click It or Ticket" and "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest."

The fourth quarter of 2009 was the 15th consecutive quarter to register a year-over-year decline in fatal traffic accidents nationwide. Traffic fatalities have declined about 22 percent since reaching a peak in 2005.