Somewhat off topic, I guess.
Japanese automobile accident deaths have declined to lowest levels
recorded in 54 years. In 2007 approximately 5,700 people were killed
in auto accidents, 609 fewer than 2006.
Per capita this is much lower than the U.S., I assume because people
drive less there.
Here is the story and video in Japanese:
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/2008/01/03/k20080102000043.html
The number of fatalities caused by drunk driving declined sharply, by
31%, to a total of 395 as of November 2007. This decline was caused
by tightened penalties and increased police vigilance in response to
some recent horrific drunk driving accidents.
- Jed
