MADISON, WI (WTAQ) - Last month was safer than the previous January on Wisconsin highways.

The DOT said 40 people were killed in 39 traffic crashes throughout the state last month. That’s four fewer deaths than the previous January, but 3 more than the average for the past five years.

State Patrol Major Sandra Huxtable said traffic crashes were up by 6 percent during 2012 – and the DOT is committed to reversing the trend in 2013.

She urged drivers to pay closer attention to traffic and road conditions, especially when there’s snow and ice.