Analysis points to rise in NC traffic fatalities

CHARLOTTE -- AAA Carolinas reports that traffic deaths in North Carolina went up nearly 8 percent last year after significant jumps in motorcycle and drunken driving deaths. The group's analysis also blames the increase on the state's failure to hire needed law enforcement personnel. Statistics show the number of motorcycle deaths increased 37 percent, from 138 in 2006 to 189 in 2007. Traffic deaths involving alcohol were up 25 percent, from 390 in 2006 to 489 last year. Overall, nearly 1,700 people died in traffic accidents in North Carolina last year, 121 more than in 2006. AAA Carolinas also pointed to a 2.1 percent increase in state Highway Patrol personnel over the past five years, or 38 new troopers for a total statewide force of 1,851. (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)