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Wyoming authorities say the number of people killed in crashes on state roads has decreased by more than half this year compared to the same time in 2015.

The Casper Star-Tribune reported that there have been 18 fatal crashes on Wyoming highways since the beginning of the year.

During the same time last year, 46 people had died in collisions.

Capt. Shawn Dickerson attributed the decrease to more troopers stationed along the roadways, fewer drivers following layoffs in the energy industry and increased efforts by the Wyoming Highway Patrol during winter storms.

Troopers are participating in a national effort to encourage more drivers to wear seat belts from Monday through June 5, and will issue citations to those found not