The number of traffic deaths in Minnesota has dropped for 2009.

According to preliminary data released Monday by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, there were 403 traffic deaths in 2009, down 8 percent from a year earlier. The number will go up as the department receives more fatal reports, with the final number projected to be around 420 — that’s the lowest since 356 deaths were reported in 1944.

The department said the new seat belt law, which requires drivers and passengers to be belted or in correct child seats, is a factor. Heightened enforcement efforts, the economy and road work also contributed to the decline.

The preliminary death count includes the deaths of 51 motorcyclists and 36 pedestrians.