55 Traffic Ticking Off 38,000Toll Worried States Seek Eve Plan By Associated Press CHICAGO, Dec. 29 A survey Thursday counted close to 36,000 traffic deaths in 1955 and many states took emergency action to hold down the bloody toll at the turn of the new year. The final 1955 highway toll is expected to approach 38,000 counting late deaths This is some 4,500 more than the 33,417 American soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen killed in battle in the three years of the Korean war. It falls short of the record 39,939 auto deaths in 1941 but is certain to exceed 1954s 36,000 deaths. Survey Result A survey taken by the Associated Press just before 1955 ended counted 35,785 Americans killed on streets and roads in the year. The AP polled all states about their traffic deaths to date and their plans to combat traffic accidents over the approaching New Years holiday. Up to date figures came from all states except New York, where statistics lag by three months. Delayed reports, deaths through New Years Eve and deaths later from injuries suffered in late 1955 accidents probably will boost the years toll by some 2,000. California First California topped all states with 3,349 deaths through Christmas. The worst records were piled up on holidays 296 deaths last New Years; 369 over Memorial Day, a record for that holiday; 407 during the Independence Day weekend; 438 over Labor Day, and 609 over Christmas the bloodiest holiday in the history of motoring. Appalled by last weekends black record, officials in many states have ordered stringent enforcement measures for the coming holiday. The National Safety Council says of this New Years The cold figures force us to the conclusion that 420 will die. Would Be Record This would be a record for New Year holidays. The greatest New Year toll thus far was 407 established over four days in 1952 53. The approaching holiday is three days, from 6 p.m. See Page 5. Column 6