ARLINGTON, Texas — New data shows a significant decline in traffic fatalities across North Texas, signaling progress in ongoing efforts to improve roadway safety.
According to the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), the number of fatal crashes and deaths decreased between 2023 and 2025 across the Dallas-Fort Worth region.
In 2023, the region recorded 804 fatal crashes resulting in 859 deaths. By 2025, those numbers dropped to 691 fatal crashes and 734 fatalities, a reduction of about 14% in both categories.
“The improvement shows that coordinated safety efforts, strategic investments and increased public awareness are making a tangible difference on North Texas roadways,” said Natalie Bettger, NCTCOG’s Senior Program Manager for Congestion Management and System Operations. “While this recent decline in fatalities is a positive sign, roadway safety remains a critical priority requiring ongoing attention and action.”
NCTCOG works closely with regional partners, including the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), to identify and fund projects aimed at reducing crashes and saving lives.
A central part of those efforts is the NCTCOG Roadway Safety Plan, which outlines a long-term goal of eliminating all roadway fatalities by 2050. The plan focuses on identifying high-risk crash locations and implementing targeted improvements.
The Regional Transportation Council has also approved a $57 million safety program to support improvements for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists across the region.
Officials said public awareness campaigns continue to play a key role in reducing dangerous driving behaviors. April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, highlighting the risks of activities that take attention away from the road.
Distracted driving can include texting or talking on a phone, eating, adjusting in-vehicle controls, grooming, watching videos or interacting with passengers. Even hands-free technology can reduce driver focus, officials said.
NCTCOG’s Drive Aware North Texas campaign provides education and resources to address behaviors such as speeding, distraction and impaired driving.
Officials also emphasized the importance of work zone safety, particularly during National Work Zone Awareness Week, observed April 20–24. Drivers are urged to slow down, avoid distractions and follow posted signs in construction areas. To plan ahead, drivers are encouraged to check for work zones along their routes at DriveTexas.org.
Roadway safety efforts also extend to protecting pedestrians and cyclists. The Look Out Texans campaign encourages drivers to remain alert and share the road responsibly. For safety tips, visit LookOutTexans.org.
Transportation officials said while the recent decline is encouraging, continued awareness and safe driving habits remain essential to further reducing fatalities across North Texas.
