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The Impact of Motor Vehicle Crashes

Too many people continue to be killed and seriously injured each year in motor vehicle crashes. Recent years have shown progress since the recent peak of roadway fatalities in 2021. Despite encouraging trends over the past few years, we estimate that 36,640 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2025. Millions more are seriously injured every year. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) remains committed to reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries by investing in strategies that promote the safe movement of people and goods.

Fatalities over time. Roadway fatalities have declined from their recent peak in 2021, but the number of Americans dying on our roads remains too high.

Source: NHTSA

 

Since the start of 2025, NHTSA's Crash estimates show continued declines compared to fatalities during the same quarter in the previous year.

 

The visual shows a decline in percent change in fatalities for each quarter when compared to the same quarter in the previous year

Source: Fatality Analysis Reporting System 

 

Last updated: Wednesday, August 5, 2026