NHTSA Reports Traffic Deaths Decline in Early 2025
Traffic fatalities in the U.S. dropped an estimated 6.3% in the first quarter of 2025, marking the 12th straight quarter of declines, according to new data released Thursday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
NHTSA projects that 8,055 people died in motor vehicle crashes from January through March — down from 8,596 during the same period in 2024.
The agency also reported that the estimated fatality rate fell to 1.05 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, the lowest for any quarter since early 2019.
“While traffic fatalities remain far too high, we are encouraged to see such a decline and pledge to continue working to drive down these numbers even more,” said Peter Simshauser, NHTSA Chief Counsel, in a statement. “The agency is also strengthening its relationships with law enforcement to ensure traffic laws are being enforced to save lives.”
The report showed that fatalities decreased in 33 states, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Vehicle travel in the first quarter remained relatively stable, increasing by just 0.6% to 4.3 billion miles.
NHTSA said it will continue prioritizing public education and enforcement partnerships while advancing safety initiatives aimed at reducing dangerous driving behaviors.
Source: NHTSA, Claimsjournal.com