April 29, 2004 – Rise In Road Deaths

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Last year saw more people killed in motor vehicle accidents than in any other year since 1990, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said. Deaths in 2003 rose about a full percent to 43,200, up 405 from 2002. The agency's administrator, Dr. Jeffrey Runge, said the number could reach 50,000 by 2008. According to Dr. Runge, the best hope for reducing the number is stronger state seat-belt laws.