South Dakota Traffic Deaths Hit Record Lows in 2025

Fatalities declined 16% from 2024, with motorcycle deaths down 30%

Feb. 4, 2026 at 1:23pm

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According to data from the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, the state saw a 16% decrease in traffic fatalities in 2025 compared to the previous year, with 123 deaths from 110 fatal crashes. This marks the lowest number of total deaths over the last five years. The South Dakota Highway Patrol credits the decline to improved coordinated efforts between law enforcement, safety partners, and drivers. Motorcycle deaths also decreased by 30% in 2025, with 25 fatalities.

Why it matters

Traffic safety is a critical issue for South Dakota, which has historically had higher than average traffic fatality rates compared to national averages. The decline in deaths, especially among motorcyclists, suggests that the state's efforts to improve road safety through enforcement, education, and infrastructure changes are having a positive impact.

The details

The 123 total traffic deaths in 2025 represent a 16% decrease from the 146 fatalities recorded in 2024. This is the lowest number of total traffic deaths in South Dakota over the past five years. The state also saw a 30% decline in motorcycle fatalities, with 25 deaths in 2025 compared to 36 the previous year.

  • In 2025, there were 110 fatal crashes that led to 123 deaths.
  • This represents a 16% decrease in fatalities compared to 2024.

The players

South Dakota Department of Public Safety

The state agency responsible for collecting and reporting traffic safety data.

South Dakota Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that works to improve road safety through enforcement and education efforts.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue our coordinated efforts between law enforcement, safety partners, and drivers to keep improving traffic safety in South Dakota.”

— South Dakota Highway Patrol

What’s next

The state will continue to monitor traffic safety data and work with stakeholders to identify additional ways to further reduce fatalities on South Dakota roads.

The takeaway

South Dakota's proactive approach to traffic safety, including enhanced enforcement, education campaigns, and infrastructure improvements, has contributed to a significant decline in traffic fatalities, demonstrating that coordinated efforts can save lives on the state's roads.