In a joint press release Wednesday, the two agencies released preliminary numbers noting that traffic fatalities during what is often called the “100 deadliest days” — the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when roadway deaths typically rise — were down in 2025.

“So far this year, Utah has seen a nearly 10% decrease in traffic fatalities year-to-date, with an 18% decrease in summer fatalities,” the release said. “The total number of summer crashes is currently at a 10-year low. Officials say this is encouraging progress and are urging Utahns to help keep that number moving in the right direction through the busy Labor Day weekend.”

UDOT Public Relations Director John Gleason told the Standard-Examiner on Friday the numbers show that messaging about safe driving is getting through to motorists.

“A variety of factors contribute to changes in fatality trends, but one thing we know for certain is that when people practice safe behaviors — driving sober, staying focused and buckling up — lives are saved,” he said. “We also hope the message of being kind and attentive behind the wheel is getting through, and that people remember everyone on the road is someone’s child, parent or friend. At the end of the day, we all need to share the road together.”

According to the preliminary report, 78 lives were lost during the 100 deadliest days in 2025 versus 94 over the same period in 2024. The report adds that between Jan. 1, 2025, and Aug. 26, 2025, there have been 160 lives lost on Utah roads. Over the same period in 2024, that figure was 174.

While the overall trend is positive, UDOT and DPS see one concerning area — fatal motorcycle accidents, which are up 36% over summer 2024.

“Too many crashes involved riders losing control on their own — often while negotiating a turn and traveling at unsafe speeds,” Gleason said. “As you head out on your bike, always wear a helmet and ride within a safe speed.”

He added that inexperience may also be playing into many of these accidents.

“Of the 29 motorcyclists who lost their lives this summer, 10 were teens,” he said. “That’s a heartbreaking number, and it underscores the need for young riders to build their skills through safety courses, ride at appropriate speeds and avoid bikes that are too powerful for their experience level.”

Gleason emphasized that there is something behind each percentage point and number on these lists — actual lives, and that’s why it’s important to keep being cautious on the road even as the 100 deadliest days of 2025 close out.

“These are more than just numbers — each statistic represents a person, a family, a friend lost too soon,” he said. “With Labor Day weekend approaching, more people will be on the roads for long trips, and as we head into the school year and fall weather, there will be more pedestrians and students out and about. Our message is to take the extra step and make safety part of your plan every time you get behind the wheel. Buckle up, stay focused, drive sober and be patient. Zero fatalities is the only acceptable goal, and every safe choice you make helps protect lives.”

Gleason added that there’s still a lot of 2025 to get through on the state’s roadways.

“We’re encouraged by the downward trend in traffic fatalities this year, and we want to keep it that way,” he said. “There are still several months left in the year, and it will take all of us working hard to keep these numbers down.

“And a reminder that safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re driving, walking, biking or riding a motorcycle, the choices you make affect not only your life but the lives of everyone around you. Take the time to plan ahead, stay alert and be patient; our goal is zero fatalities, and together we can make our roads safer for everyone.”