Though overall levels remain high, the number of pedestrians killed by motorists in the US fell 10.9% over the first 6 months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024
Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reveals how this was the single largest decline in pedestrian deaths since records began in 2015.
The 10.9% drop in pedestrian deaths from 2024 to 2025 (January-June) translates into 371 fewer fatalities, which as GHSA reminds us is more than just a number, but 371 friends, family, and loved ones that can still be hugged and cherished.
When measured by deaths per 100,000, the rate is the lowest it’s been this decade. If measured by deaths per vehicle miles traveled, its the lowest since 2019.
With some exceptions, there’s quite plainly a north-south divide, with states like Minnesota, Idaho, Indiana, New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts recording deaths per 100,000 residents at lower than 0.6, while Florida, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, South Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Georgia crest 1.0.
Previous GHSA data has shown that one of the biggest determinants to pedestrian traffic deaths is darkness, which is likely why the southern states, with their larger and poorly-lit rural areas, record more deaths than the northern states.
“Each pedestrian death is so much more than just a number. Each one is a family member, friend or neighbor that no one will be able to hug, see or share time with ever again. While we are pleased with the progress shown in the data, the only acceptable number of traffic deaths is zero,” said Jonathan Adkins, CEO of the GHSA.
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