GAYLORD, MI -- The number of Americans killed in car accidents is down to its lowest levels in 60 years.

Any police officer will tell you showing up to a scene of a deadly accident is the worst part of their job; from the investigation, to delivering the bad news to a family.  But good news tonight, that's happening less frequently.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released new statistics.

Last year, car fatalities fell 2.9 percent nationally, down to the lowest number since 1949.  Americans drove 46-billion more miles last year compared to 2009.    

"Driving habits.  If people understand that roads are wet or snow-covered, you really have to lower speeds, that with always wearing your seat belt, even in the back seat," explains Sgt. Jeff Gorno, of the Michigan State Police Post in Gaylord.

Michigan is one of five states that saw an increase of 50 or more deaths last year compared to 2009.

Car fatalities were up eight percent, killing 937 people.  But according to the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, more deaths happened in 2008 compared to last year, and overall, the trend is down in the last five years. 

95 percent of Michigan drivers wear seatbelts and fewer are driving drunk.  Police also give credit to stricter guidelines for younger drivers.

“We're seeing a decrease in 16 year-old accidents, with that said, I think the experience and the mandating that you drive with an adult for a certain period of time, it's working to our benefit, so that's going to continue," said Sgt. Gorno.

But it isn't just drivers driving better, roads are getting safer, like that rumble you hear when you go too far over on each side of the road.  Also, there are more guard rails in the middle of interstates, minimizing the chance of a car crashing and hitting you head on.

Vehicle safety is also some of the best it's ever been.  An average car now has six airbags, stability control, and traction assistance.

"Car could look bad, but chances are the passenger is in great health," explains Fernelius New Car Salesman Curt Gardner.

Police hope distractions like talking on the phone and texting decrease and help the number of vehicle deaths drop even more.