Pennsylvania Highway Deaths Decline in 2024, Reversing Recent Trends

After years of rising traffic fatalities, Pennsylvania is finally seeing a decline in highway deaths. Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that the state recorded an estimated 866 traffic fatalities in the first nine months of 2024, a 3.8% decrease from the same period in 2023. This shift marks a reversal from previous years when Pennsylvania saw rising fatalities even as national numbers improved.

While this decline is promising, it does not mean the roads are completely safe. Even with this improvement, hundreds of lives have been lost, and many more drivers, passengers, and pedestrians have suffered serious injuries in preventable car accidents. Understanding what is causing these accidents — and what is being done to prevent them — can help drivers make safer choices and hold negligent parties accountable when tragedy strikes.

Why were traffic deaths increasing in Pennsylvania?

Traffic fatalities in Pennsylvania followed a troubling upward trend in recent years. In 2023 alone, 1,229 people lost their lives on the state’s roadways, a 4.2% increase from 2022. This rise was especially concerning given that national traffic deaths dropped during the same period.

One of the biggest factors behind the increase was reckless driving behavior that surged during the pandemic. With fewer cars on the road, many drivers took advantage of open highways, leading to excessive speeding and a higher rate of serious crashes. Even as traffic returned to pre-pandemic levels, dangerous habits remained.

Several key factors contributed to the rise in fatal crashes:

• Speeding – Driving too fast for conditions increases the likelihood of losing control and reduces reaction time.
• Distracted driving – The rise of smartphones, in-car technology, and hands-free devices has led to more drivers taking their eyes off the road.
• Impaired driving – Drunk and drugged driving continues to be a leading cause of deadly crashes despite years of awareness campaigns.
• Lack of seatbelt use – Many fatal crashes involve drivers and passengers who were not properly restrained.

While Pennsylvania has made progress in reducing these numbers, fatal accidents still happen every day. When a crash is caused by reckless or negligent driving, victims and their families often face overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and emotional devastation.

What is being done to make Pennsylvania roads safer?

State and federal officials have been working to curb traffic fatalities through a combination of enforcement, technology, and infrastructure improvements. In 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation introduced a national safety strategy backed by funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law. This plan focuses on several key areas to reduce road deaths, including:

• New vehicle safety technology – Automatic emergency braking systems and crash-avoidance features are becoming standard in new cars.
• Speed limit adjustments – Some areas are lowering speed limits or increasing enforcement to reduce high-speed crashes.
• Improved road design – Changes to intersections, bike lanes, and pedestrian crossings help reduce high-risk traffic areas.
• Stronger impaired driving laws – Lawmakers continue to push for tougher penalties for drunk and drugged driving.

Federal agencies have also proposed new rules requiring automatic braking systems on larger trucks and implementing speed limiters for commercial vehicles. However, there is concern that these efforts could be rolled back under the new presidential administration. Vice President JD Vance has co-sponsored legislation to block mandatory speed limiters for truckers.

When a crash happens, victims need support

Even with improved safety measures, serious car accidents continue to occur across Pennsylvania. A single moment of negligence—whether it’s a distracted driver checking a phone or a reckless driver speeding through an intersection—can result in life-altering injuries or the loss of a loved one.

For those injured in a crash, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, and lost wages create financial stress, so insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Knowing what to do in the moments after an accident can help protect both physical health and legal rights.

If involved in a crash, taking the following steps can make a difference:

• Call 911 – Reporting the accident ensures medical help arrives quickly and creates an official police record.
• Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions worsen over time. A medical record also links injuries to the crash.
• Document the scene – Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals can serve as valuable evidence.
• Get witness information – Statements from bystanders can support a claim if fault is disputed.
• Avoid admitting fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against a claim, so it’s best to stick to the facts.
• Notify the insurance company – Reporting the crash is necessary, but avoid providing recorded statements without legal advice.

These steps can help secure the evidence to hold the at-fault driver accountable. When serious injuries or financial losses are involved, having an experienced car accident lawyer can make all the difference in navigating the legal process and securing full compensation.

How a Pittsburgh car accident lawyer can help

After a serious crash, insurance companies look for ways to minimize payouts. Proving fault and the full extent of injuries is critical to getting the compensation you deserve.

Romanow Law Group investigates accidents, gathers evidence, and works with medical experts to build strong cases. If insurers refuse fair settlements, they are prepared to take cases to trial.

Get the legal support you need. Contact Romanow Law Group for a free consultation with a Pittsburgh car accident lawyer. Pay no fees unless we win your case.

“I had an outstanding experience with Romanow Law Group after my car accident. From the moment I reached out, their team was compassionate, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable. They guided me through every step of the legal process, ensuring I felt supported and informed. Their dedication to my case resulted in a favorable settlement, far exceeding my expectations. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a trustworthy and effective car accident attorney.” – Carlo L., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐