The number of traffic deaths in Sweden dropped in 2005 to the lowest level ever recorded, cementing the country’s reputation as one of the safest places in Europe to drive.
Preliminary figures from the Swedish Road Administration showed 440 people died on Swedish roads last year, down from 480 in 2004.
Final figures were expected in April.
The state agency attributed the fall to improved safety features in cars and on their network of highways.
More railings have been built to prevent cars from swerving into lanes with oncoming traffic, and an increasing number of cars are equipped with anti-skid systems, it said.
Swedish drivers and passengers also more frequently wear their seat belts – which is mandatory by law – and more cyclists are wearing helmets, the agency said.
Neighbouring Denmark and Norway also saw their numbers of traffic fatalities drop during the last year, according to preliminary figures.