Tennessee sees drop in traffic fatalities in 2025

Tennessee recorded a significant decline in traffic fatalities in 2025, according to year-end data released by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. The Tennessee Fatality Analysis Reporting System shows 1,045 traffic fatalities statewide in 2025, down from 1,194 in 2024, a reduction of approximately 14%. Much of the statewide improvement was driven by significant progress in Memphis and Shelby County, where coordinated enforcement and safety initiatives, including the Memphis Safe Task Force and the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Bluff City Task Force, contributed to a substantial reduction in fatalities. Urban areas accounted for the largest share of statewide improvement, with 128 fewer fatalities compared to last year. Rural fatalities also declined, though at a smaller rate, reinforcing the need for continued focus on rural road safety. Statewide data also showed reductions in crashes involving teen drivers and older drivers, as well as a decrease in pedestrian fatalities.