In 2024, North Dakota recorded 89 traffic fatalities (including drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians) a drop of 17 people compared to 2023, and the lowest annual total in more than two decades.
A Closer Look at the Data
- 30 fatalities involved unbelted occupants — a decrease from 37 in 2023.
- 19 fatalities were alcohol-related — a decrease from 33 in 2023, however, several toxicology reports are still pending.
- 21 fatalities were speed-related — a decrease from 24 in 2023.
- 57 fatal crashes involved lane departures — an increase from 52 in 2023.
- 17 motorcyclists died in crashes — an increase from 16 in 2023.
- 5 pedestrian deaths were recorded — a decrease from 10 in 2023.
While any loss of life is too many, the downward trend shows that efforts in enforcement, education, and driver behavior can make a real difference.
Why the Numbers Matter for Winter
As we head into the winter month here in North Dakota, the good news is overall fatalities gives us reason to renew our commitment to safe winter driving. Winter driving conditions snow, ice, reduced visibility, wind-drifted snow across roads, etc. are all magnifying risk factors.
Here are some winter-ready habits to help keep us moving safely.
Winter Driving Safety Habits
· Check your vehicle before you go: Ensure tires are properly inflated and have good tracking. Make sure windshield wipers are fresh, washer fluid is full, lights are clean and functioning.
· Give yourself extra time: Roads may be slick. Allow more time to reach your destination so you’re not rushed.
· Slow down and increase following distance: On ice or snow, braking and turning require more distance and gentler inputs. Increase your gap behind the vehicle ahead.
· Stay alert for changing conditions: Black ice, blowing snow, shifts in sunlight, shaded curves — all can create unexpected hazards. Adjust speed accordingly.
· Avoid distractions: Winter roads demand full attention. Put the phone away, minimize in-car distractions, keep both hands on the wheel.
· Know when to postpone travel: If a storm is building or visibility is near zero, reconsider your trip. Sometimes the safest move is to wait until road crews have cleared and conditions improve.
· Keep an emergency kit: Winter kits including blanket, flashlight, snacks, water, shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables — helpful if you get stuck or stranded.
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· Mind other road users and conditions: Snowplows, slower vehicles, and pedestrians may be harder to see in whiteout conditions or at dawn/dusk. Give them space.
· Wear your seat belt: Even on seemingly routine trips, the seat-belt saves lives. The more we buckle up, the stronger the safety ripple becomes.
· Plan for daylight travel when possible: As daylight hours shorten, try to schedule travel during daylight if you can — fewer surprises from the dark, and spotting hazards is easier.
We Still Have Work to Do
While 2024’s total fatality is a milestone for North Dakota, it also reminds us that we still have work to do. Every time a driver, passenger, pedestrian or motorcyclist loses their life on our roads, it affects families, friends, and communities.
As winter sets in lets practice the safe driving habits above. Let’s support our neighbors, our young drivers, and all road users in staying safe. If we each do our part, we can help maintain and perhaps even improve upon this encouraging trend.
Source: Vision Zero ND – Crash fatalities lowest in 24 years as summer driving season begins | NDDOT – Traffic Safety: Vision Zero
