San Diego

Traffic fatalities declined in 1986 in San Diego, and police said they believe that the mandatory use of seat belts, crackdowns on drunk drivers and improved citizen awareness are behind the decline.

Ninety-five people were killed in traffic accidents last year, down from 117 killed in 1985, police spokesman Bill Robinson said. In 1984, the toll was 106.

“We are very encouraged by the decline,” Robinson said.

The victims included 35 who were in vehicles, 35 attempting to cross a street, 22 riding on motorcycles, a pair of bicyclists and a moped rider, the report said.

In 1985, 48 people in cars were killed, and 40 pedestrians died after being struck by vehicles. The spokesman said that 50% of fatal accidents last year involved alcohol or drugs.

Other factors that contributed to fatal collisions were speeding, following too closely and right-of-way violations, Robinson said, adding that many of the pedestrians killed were elderly people attempting to cross at poorly lighted intersections.