There have been 87 traffic deaths in New York City so far this year, which puts 2025 on track to be one of the safest years on record.
The New York City Department of Transportation announced today that in the first six months of 2025, the number of traffic deaths has reached the lowest level in recorded history. The number of deaths is the same as in the first six months of 2018, which went on to become the safest year since the city began keeping records on traffic fatalities in 1910.
The 87 deaths in the first six months of this year are a 32% decrease from the first six months of last year, which reported 128 fatalities and ended with 251. DOT data released on Wednesday also shows declines in traffic deaths involving pedestrians and riders of bicycles and motor vehicles.
“The 32 percent drop in traffic fatalities that we have seen this year is historic,” said Mayor Eric Adams in a press release. “It’s also further proof that our administration’s Vision Zero efforts are working.
Strong enforcement against reckless driving is keeping pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers safe, and our administration will continue using all tools available to drive down traffic violence and deliver results that keep New Yorkers safe on and off our streets.”
New York City has reached a historic milestone in road safety. During the first half of 2025, traffic-related fatalities across the five boroughs dropped to their lowest level since the city began keeping records. Officials are calling it a turning point in the city’s long-standing effort to make streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
As of June 30, just 87 traffic deaths had been reported citywide—a dramatic decline from the 128 fatalities recorded over the same period last year. The reduction represents a nearly 32 percent drop and reflects substantial improvements across nearly every category of road user.
A Broad-Based Decline
The decline in fatalities was seen across all major groups:
- Pedestrian deaths saw a noticeable decrease, with improved intersection design and slower vehicle speeds cited as likely contributors.
- Motorcyclists and e-mobility users, including riders of e-bikes and scooters, also experienced fewer fatal incidents, suggesting that targeted regulations and safety campaigns are having an effect.
- Cyclist deaths, while already low, fell further, thanks in part to the expansion of protected bike lanes and other infrastructure improvements.
- Vehicle occupant fatalities also declined, highlighting safer driving behavior and more consistent enforcement.
Borough-Level Improvements
Each of the five boroughs recorded fewer fatalities compared to last year, with the Bronx and Queens seeing the steepest declines. These areas, which had historically struggled with high traffic injury rates, have benefitted from focused safety initiatives, including redesigned streets and increased enforcement in crash-prone corridors.
The Impact of Vision Zero
Launched over a decade ago, New York City’s Vision Zero strategy has played a central role in driving down traffic deaths. The initiative includes a combination of engineering improvements, education efforts, and targeted policing. City officials have credited ongoing investments in street redesigns, expanded camera enforcement, and speed limit reductions for helping turn the tide.
Notably, the city’s automated speed and red-light cameras now operate 24/7 in many high-risk areas, significantly boosting deterrence. Education campaigns about speeding, distracted driving, and pedestrian right-of-way laws have also grown more visible in recent months.
A Cautious Path Forward
While the city celebrates this milestone, officials and advocates are quick to note that the work is far from over. Rising numbers of non-fatal crashes and near-misses—especially involving electric bikes and scooters—highlight evolving challenges. There are also concerns about ensuring funding and political support for continued infrastructure upgrades and enforcement programs.
Moreover, while fatalities have dropped, each life lost is still one too many. Advocates emphasize that the ultimate goal remains zero deaths, and that lasting success depends on sustained momentum and community engagement.
A Safer Future for NYC Streets
New York City’s sharp decline in traffic deaths signals real progress in the fight for safer streets. With strong leadership, smarter design, and continued vigilance, the city is inching closer to transforming Vision Zero from an aspiration into a daily reality for millions of New Yorkers.
