From staff reports

HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania recorded its lowest number of traffic deaths on record in 2025, with fatalities dropping from the previous year to the lowest level since recordkeeping began in 1928, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

PennDOT reported 1,047 traffic deaths statewide last year, 80 fewer than in 2024. The agency also recorded 979 fatal crashes in 2025, down from 1,060 the previous year and the lowest number on record. Overall, there were 109,515 reportable crashes statewide, the second-lowest total behind only 2020, when traffic volumes dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fatalities involving impaired drivers dropped from 342 in 2024 to 258 last year, while deaths in lane departure crashes fell from 537 to 492. Fatalities involving people not wearing seat belts also declined, from 311 to 259.

Some categories saw increases, including bicyclist deaths, which rose from 19 to 28, and fatalities involving distracted drivers, which increased slightly from 49 to 54.

PennDOT officials credited safety investments, enforcement efforts and education campaigns for helping reduce fatalities, while urging drivers to avoid distractions, slow down, never drive impaired and always wear a seat belt.