The National Safety Council started recording accident statistics in 1923. The motor vehicle death rate has declined significantly in each subsequent decade. The decline accelerated following the establishment of 18 highway safety standards following the 1966 enactment of the Highway Safety Act. These standards cover vehicle inspection, registration, driver education, and many other factors. The drop from 5.67 deaths per 100,000 motor vehicle miles in 1966 to 2.93 in 1982 has saved an estimated 229,334 lives and 8,777,200 injuries. Currently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is funding only a few areas, such as alcohol, traffic records, emergency medical services, and police traffic services. State and local efforts are crucial to a comprehensive alcohol traffic safety program, which should involve the total legal system and provide adequate support systems, treatment, educational programs, and research and demonstration projects. An international symposium and the establishment in 1982 of a presidential commission are two major developments to deal with drunk driving in recent years. Improving highway safety also requires attention to such issues as the effects of smaller cars, teenage drinking, and growing numbers of elderly drivers. 22 references.