Highway Fatalities Reach Five-Year Low in South Dakota

PIERRE, S.D. — In 2025, South Dakota recorded 110 fatal crashes resulting in 123 deaths, marking a five-year low and a significant improvement in roadway safety, according to preliminary data from the South Dakota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Accident Records.

The total represents a 16.9% decrease in the number of fatalities from 2024, with 25 fewer deaths statewide, and an 18.5% decrease in the number of fatal crashes.

“South Dakota saw a significant improvement in roadway safety in 2025. This progress is a direct result of the commitment of our state troopers, our highway safety partners, and South Dakota drivers who are doing their part to keep roads safer,” said Col. Casey Collins, Superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol (SDHP). “However, one fatal crash is still too many, and we will continue our tireless work to keep South Dakota roadways safe for everyone.”

Despite the overall decline, data shows seat belt use remains a critical safety issue. Of the fatalities where seat belt use was applicable, 59% of those deaths included people who were not wearing their seat belt.

Twenty-one fatalities were attributed to excessive speed, compared to 27 the previous year, showing a 22% decrease. The five-year average for speed-related fatalities is 36.

Twenty-three of the 123 fatalities last year included motorcyclists. Motorcycle fatalities showed a significant reduction last year representing a 30% decline from 2024. Last year, 376 basic rider motorcycle safety courses were provided to 1,876 students and 28 advanced braking and cornering clinics trained 78 students.

Alcohol-related fatalities increased slightly in 2025. Thirty-five deaths were linked to impaired driving, up from 33 in 2024, a 6% increase. The five-year average for alcohol-related fatalities is 45.

The SDHP and the Office of Highway Safety continue to promote safe driving habits through a variety of outreach efforts. These include statewide media and social media campaigns, community presentations, interviews, and teen safe driver programs designed to educate young drivers before unsafe habits form.

Officials urge motorists to remain vigilant and committed to safe driving behaviors as efforts continue to reduce traffic fatalities across the state. The Office of Highway Safety has kicked off a new campaign called, “It Starts With You.”

The South Dakota Highway Patrol, Office of Highway Safety and Office of Accident Records are agencies of the South Dakota Dept. of Public Safety.

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