Reported Traffic Fatalities Decline Across Three States

North Carolina reported 1,524 traffic deaths in 2025, down 12% from 2024, while crash injuries fell nearly 6% to 107,076 despite a record estimated 132 billion miles driven. The state’s report found that alcohol and speeding were cited in relatively few crashes but contributed disproportionately to fatal ones; 44% of people killed were not wearing seat belts. Kansas recorded 268 traffic deaths through Oct. 20, 2026, an 8.22% decrease from the same period in 2025, though officials said the preliminary figure could change as investigations continue. Nebraska also reported fewer road deaths in September, with 13 people killed in 11 crashes, compared with 24 fatalities the previous September.