2025 Traffic Deaths Down 13%

The National Safety Council estimates U.S. traffic fatalities fell 13–13.5% in the first half of 2025, even as miles driven rose slightly. The fatality rate dropped to 1.15 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, with big state‑level variance (e.g., DC −67%, California −43%) and a few increases (Hawaii +46%). In parallel, the National Insurance Crime Bureau reports vehicle thefts fell 17% in 2024, the largest annual drop in 40 years. — A sizable, nationwide safety improvement reshapes debates on road‑safety policy and may ease insurance inflation pressures.