South Dakota Traffic Deaths Hit A Five-year Low In 2025
South Dakota roads are safer than they've been in quite a while.
New numbers from the South Dakota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Accident Records show that in 2025, the state saw 110 fatal crashes resulting in 123 deaths, marking a five-year low.
The total represents a nearly 17 percent decrease in the number of fatalities from 2024, with 25 fewer deaths statewide, and a nearly 19 percent decrease in the number of fatal crashes.
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It's not all good news, though.
Data shows seat belt use remains a critical safety issue in South Dakota. Of the fatalities where seat belt use was applicable, more than half (59%) of those deaths included people who were not wearing their seat belts.
Twenty-one fatalities were attributed to excessive speed, compared to 27 the previous year, showing a 22 percent 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.
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