U.S. Traffic Deaths Hit Lowest Level Since 2019 as Fatalities Continue 15-Quarter Decline

Federal safety officials reported that 36,640 people died on American roadways in 2025, marking a 6.7-percent decline compared with the previous year. This represents the lowest fatality level since 2019—the year before the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), U.S. traffic deaths have fallen for 15 consecutive quarters. In 2024, the agency recorded 39,254 fatalities, a 4.3-percent decrease from 2023.

The decline in fatalities occurred despite Americans driving 29.8 billion more miles in 2025 than in 2024—a 0.9-percent increase, per the Federal Highway Administration.

Nationwide Safety Improvements

The reduction in traffic deaths was widespread, with 39 states and the District of Columbia reporting year-over-year declines in fatality rates.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, stating that officials have been educating the public about the dangers of distracted driving, drunk driving, and driving without a seat belt.

Duffy also noted that the Department of Transportation (DOT) is collaborating with automakers to enhance vehicle safety and affordability. In a release, he said:

"At this Department, the safety and success of American families drive our work."

National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

The announcement coincides with April being designated National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Law enforcement agencies will intensify efforts to identify and deter distracted drivers to prevent crashes.

While vehicles are safer than ever, officials credit a combination of enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and in-car technologies for reducing fatalities. Since 2022, traffic deaths have declined annually, following a 1.2-percent drop from the 2021 peak of 43,230 fatalities—the highest in the past decade.