New Jersey Drunken Driving Deaths Drop 6 Percent

Drunken driving deaths are decreasing in New Jersey.

According to new federal data released Thursday by AAA Mid-Atlantic, there were 47 fewer DUI-related deaths in New Jersey in 2007 than the year before. That’s a 6 percent drop.

New Jersey recorded 199 DUI-related deaths last year, or about 28 percent of all Garden State road fatalities.

The New Jersey drop mirrors a national trend. DUI-related deaths were down 4 percent nationwide last year.

AAA Mid-Atlantic credits widespread acceptance of the “Don’t Drink and Drive” message, tougher penalties for drunken driving and increased vigilance by police.