Washington road fatalities plunge 18 percent, but risks rise for older drivers and pedestrians
By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, May 27th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
OLYMPIA — Traffic fatalities in Washington dropped 18 percent over the last two years, down from a 33-year high of 809 deaths in 2023 to 659 in 2025, according to preliminary state data.
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission reported improvements across most behaviors, including declines in speeding, distraction, and young driver involvements.
However, total fatalities still remain above pre-pandemic levels.
“It is encouraging to see this decrease,” WTSC Research Director Staci Hoff said. Though she noted fatal crashes involving drivers 70 and older hit a record high of 112. Pedestrian deaths also remained high at 148.
Officials urged caution ahead of summer, citing impairment, speed, distraction, and seat belt neglect.
“Our goal is zero,” WTSC Director Shelly Baldwin said.
