Question: I listened to your radio show the other day and you were talking about fatal crashes were lower last year. What was the break down on the numbers?
Answer: In 2025, Minnesota saw a significant improvement in road safety, recording 370 traffic-related deaths. This marks the lowest fatality count since 2019 and reflects a 22 percent decrease from 2024 and 8 percent less than in 2023.
While the overall trend is positive, specific categories show where our roads are getting safer and where challenges remain:
• Speed-related fatalities (98) were 29 percent less than in 2024 (138), 43 percent less than in 2021 (171) and the lowest since 2019.
• Unbelted deaths (70) were 31 percent less than in 2024 (101) and the lowest in the past seven years. Distraction-related deaths (21) were 30 percent less than in 2024 (30), 34 percent less than in 2020 (32) and the lowest in the past seven years. Bicycle fatalities (14) were twice as high as in 2024 (7). The next highest count since 2019 was in 2020 (10).
• Motorcycle deaths (57) were 25 percent less than in 2024 (76) and the lowest since 2019.
The Minnesota State Patrol remains committed to a dual-pronged approach for 2026. While public education on the dangers of speeding, impairment and distraction is vital, it must be supported by extra enforcement.
Let’s work together to make 2026 the safest year yet. Buckle up, put the phone away, and drive for the conditions.
Any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trooper Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, 2900 48th St., NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848; or send an email to: Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.