Utah traffic fatalities down significantly during 100 Deadliest Days
August 27, 2025
UDOT and DPS urge caution as officials work to save more lives on Utah’s roads
SALT LAKE CITY (August 27, 2025) — The Utah Department of Transportation and the Utah Department of Public Safety today released preliminary numbers for the 100 Deadliest Days — the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when roadway deaths typically rise.
So far this year, Utah has seen a nearly 10% decrease in traffic fatalities year-to-date, with an 18% decrease in summer fatalities. The total number of summer crashes is currently at a 10-year low. Officials say this is encouraging progress and are urging Utahns to help keep that number moving in the right direction through the busy Labor Day weekend.
“Every number represents a person, and behind each of those lives are families, friends and communities,” said John Gleason, UDOT Public Relations Director. “Seeing fewer lives lost on Utah’s roads this year is encouraging progress. But with Labor Day being one of the busiest weekends of the year, we need everyone to do their part to keep that trend moving in the right direction.”
Even with the decrease in fatalities, UDOT and DPS said there is work to be done.
One area of concern this year has been motorcycle fatalities. So far in 2025, motorcyclist fatalities are up 36%. Last year, many of these motorcycle fatalities were single rider crashes, but recently there have been more incidents involving other vehicles, which is why it’s so important for both riders and drivers to stay alert and share the road safely. Statewide data points to speed, negotiating curves, and motorcycles turning left as contributing factors in these fatalities.
“Motorcycles have been one of the biggest challenges this year,” said Jason Mettmann, DPS communications manager. “Riders can protect themselves by wearing gear, sharpening skills, and riding defensively. Drivers must stay alert and give motorcycles space. Everyone has a role in preventing these tragedies.”
UDOT and DPS are reminding Utahns to focus on the basics this holiday weekend: wear a seatbelt, follow the speed limit, drive sober, stay alert, and put distractions away.
By working together, Utahns can close out the summer safely and keep fatality numbers moving in the right direction.