An estimated 39,345 people died in U.S. traffic crashes in 2024, a 3.8% decrease from the 40,901 deaths recorded in 2023, according to early estimates released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
This marks the first year since 2020 that roadway fatalities fell below 40,000 and the 11th consecutive quarter of decline, continuing a trend that began in mid-2022.
“It’s encouraging to see that traffic fatalities are continuing to fall from their COVID pandemic highs,” said Peter Simshauser, NHTSA chief counsel, in a statement. “However, total road fatalities remain significantly higher than a decade ago, and the U.S. fatality rate is still high compared to peer nations.”
The report credits stronger enforcement and increased public awareness of risky driving behaviors—such as speeding, impaired driving, distraction and lack of seat belt use—as contributing factors in the decline. Simshauser emphasized ongoing collaboration with law enforcement to improve safety nationwide.
Preliminary data from the Federal Highway Administration shows Americans drove 1% more in 2024, yet the fatality rate dropped to 1.20 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. That is the lowest rate since 2019.
Fatalities declined in 35 states and Puerto Rico, while increases were reported in 14 states and the District of Columbia.
NHTSA also confirmed that 2023 saw 1,820 fewer deaths compared to 2022—a 4.3% decline. The 2023 fatality rate fell by 6%, from 1.34 to 1.26 per 100 million miles.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Yahoo.com
