West Virginia State Police are attributing a decline in traffic fatalities to increased patrols paid for by the Governor's Highway Safety Program
In 2012, law enforcement agencies across the state reported 339 fatalities, occurring in 318 fatal car crashes, according to a news release. The number fell to 270 fatalities in 2015, and 249 fatal crashes.
Troopers conduct the patrols on their days off, before and after regular shifts, and during vacation time.
"Our Traffic Section has reviewed areas of high DUI and fatality rates across the state and encouraged patrols to be conducted in those areas," Lt. Michael Baylous said in the release. "Furthermore, we try to conduct these patrols on holidays, during peak traveling seasons, and during peak traveling hours, such as when motorists are commuting to and from work."
