Iowa could close 2018 with its lowest traffic fatality figure in over seven decades. Patrick Hoye, chief of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau, says around 312 people have died in crashes on Iowa roads this year. That puts the state on pace to improve on a low fatality count posted five years ago.

It’s no cause for celebration, but Hoye credits the dip in fatal crashes this year to several factors – including changes in traffic laws.

Hoye also believes more Iowans are staying off their phone when they’re behind the wheel.