Highway fatalities in Kentucky dropped to 707 in 2024, down 107 from 2023, the lowest number in a decade, according to a statement made by Governor Andy Beshear.
The governor acknowledged the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) ongoing efforts to enhance safety via engineering, enforcement, and education.
“These numbers mean fewer families have had to deal with such a painful loss, and it’s welcome news,” said Gov.Beshear. “By working together, we can ensure everyone traveling on Kentucky’s roadways makes it home safely. Let’s keep doing all we can to prevent tragedies—like buckling up, driving distraction-free and slowing down.”
33% of the 707 recorded deaths in 2024 involved speeding or aggressive driving, 22% involved distracted driving, 47% involved unbelted people, and 19% involved drinking. There were 110 fatalities among bicyclists and pedestrians and 96 among motorcycle riders.
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“We’re asking motorists and passengers to commit to safe driving behaviors when behind the wheel, such as buckling up, putting the phone down, obeying the speed limit and driving sober,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “This helps keep our roadways safe, not only for those in vehicles, but for all road users, such as pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.”
“One of the hardest tasks for law enforcement is notifying a family that their loved one has been in a fatal crash. So, if we can potentially save a life by enforcing traffic laws, we’ll do it,” stated KSP Major Eric Walker. “At the end of the day, it’s not about writing tickets; it’s about ensuring everyone makes it home safely.”
182 road deaths have been reported so far in 2025, which is 17.27% fewer than at this time last year.
KYTC keeps making investments in safer infrastructure, such as roundabouts, a wrong-way driving detection system, and Restricted Crossing U-Turns, like the one in Trigg County that has eliminated fatalities and cut crashes by 64.5%. In Fayette County, a ~$12.75 million U-turn project is also in progress to lessen collisions on Richmond Road and Athens Boonesboro Road.
The Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge, which uses an app to track and enhance teen driving behaviors, is one initiative to support driver education.
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This article appears in Apr 25 – May 8, 2025.
