Preliminary statistics for this year show that highway deaths nationwide are down considerably compared to 2007, USA Today reports.

Fatality numbers declined in 35 of 37 states that have provided information so far in 2008. The same was true for the District of Columbia. The declines are significant, police and transportation agencies confirm — more than 10 percent in 30 states and more than 20 percent in 14 states and the District of Columbia.

Officials such as Barbara Harsha of the Governors Highway Safety Association caution that the numbers are preliminary and limited. But something is afoot, for she said: "The decline in fatalities is great news, and 2008 has the potential to be a banner year for highway safety."

If the statistics reflect a general trend toward fewer highway deaths, what could be the cause?

Some police officials agree with Capt. Curtis Henderson of the Iowa State Patrol, who said: "Although I have no data that would clearly indicate this, I do believe part of our reduction in traffic collisions and deaths can be attributed to fewer miles being driven."

Sid Gaulden of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety agrees: "The general observation is there appears to be less traffic on the highways and roads."

That could be one positive outcome of the gas price spike. But USA Today points out that traffic deaths had been declining before gas prices rose. In 2006, 42,642 people died on America's roads — 868 fewer than the previous year.

Gas prices aside, let's hope the trend continues.