US Traffic Deaths Hit Lowest Rate Since 2014

US traffic deaths have fallen to their lowest rate since 2014, according to government data. In the first half of 2026, traffic fatalities decreased by 2.5%, totaling 16,750 deaths. This represents the lowest figure for the period since 2015. The fatality rate also declined to 1.02 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.

This downward trend follows several years of elevated road deaths after a pandemic-era spike. For the full year 2025, traffic deaths also fell to their lowest number since 2019. Experts attribute the earlier pandemic spike to factors like riskier driving behaviors and increased impairment, as roads became less crowded and enforcement perceived as less likely.

Despite the overall decrease, bicyclist deaths remain a concern, rising 4% in 2025 to 1,148 fatalities, marking the highest figure in over four decades. Previous studies highlight the substantial economic impact of crashes, costing taxpayers billions and society trillions when quality-of-life valuations are included.