BISMARCK (KFGO-AM) -- The number of people killed in traffic crashes in North Dakota dropped last year.
The State Patrol says there were 149 deaths compared to 170 in 2012.
Patrol Sgt. Tom Iverson says with more vehicles on the roads, its becoming difficult to keep the numbers down.
Drinking was considered a factor in 40% of the fatalities last year, down from 52% the previous year.
More than half of the deadly crashes took place in the northwestern part of the state where oil-related truck traffic has increased significantly.
KNOX