Beshear announces decline in 2024 Kentucky highway fatalities

FRANKFORT, Ky. – On Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced highway fatalities in Kentucky decreased in 2024.

According to a release by the governor’s office, that number hit 707 – down 107 deaths compared to 2023.

Officials say this is the lowest number of highway fatalities in the Commonwealth in the last decade.

“These numbers mean fewer families have had to deal with such a painful loss, and it’s welcome news,” Beshear said. “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.”

Nearly half of all reported motor vehicle fatalities in Kentucky involve drivers or passengers not wearing a seat belt, officials say. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, you cut your risk of a fatal injury in a crash nearly in half by buckling up.

So far in 2025, Beshear’s office says preliminary numbers show 182 roadway deaths, down 17.27% compared with the same time last year.

Team Kentucky encourages all travelers, including drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians, to stay alert and make safe choices on Kentucky roadways.