Traffic deaths have been declining for years. But in 2008, according to preliminary numbers, they took a steep dive — a rare bit of good news in a gloomy time.

Part of the drop was linked to last summer’s spike in fuel prices.

People drove less, and one study concluded that many drove slower.

During the first 10 months of 2008 — the latest numbers available — 31,110 people died on U.S. roads, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That was about 10 percent below the same period in 2007.

In Missouri, 959 people died in traffic crashes, compared with 992 the year before.

In Kansas, there were 384 fatalities, down from 416 in 2007. Numbers for both states were preliminary, with final statistics expected later this spring.

A separate study by the Governors Highway Safety Association found that in many states, fatalities dropped by more than vehicle miles traveled — perhaps an indication that the emphasis on safer cars, highways and drivers is beginning to pay higher dividends.

In several states, officials reported that drivers were slowing down a bit, no doubt to conserve fuel.

An economic slump and soaring fuel prices are no one’s idea of a good time. But together they contributed to fewer highway deaths last year, a welcome development.

Here’s hoping the trend toward greater safety continues once the economy recovers.