(The Center Square) – Traffic fatalities decreased by 14% in Tennessee in 2025, with the Memphis area experiencing the most significant decline, according to a report from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
The Memphis post of the Tennessee Highway Patrol investigated 169 traffic deaths, down from 259 in 2024. The numbers do not include the last two days of the year, the department said.
Law enforcement officials attributed the decline in fatalities to the Memphis Safe Task Force and the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Bluff City Task Force. The Task Force is a state and federal partnership announced by Gov. Bill Lee in late 2025.
Cookeville traffic deaths declined from 77 in 2024 to 57 in 2025. The post, which is about 80 miles east of Nashville, oversees the roadways in 15 counties.
The Knoxville post investigated 25 fewer fatalities in 2025, which were in Knox County, according to the department.
Lawrenceburg had 65 traffic fatalities in 2025 and 77 in 2024. The Middle Tennessee post serves 11 counties.
“This is meaningful progress, and it represents lives saved,” said Col. Matt Perry, commander of the Tennessee Highway Patrol, in a statement. “Our troopers see the consequences of dangerous driving every day. Enforcement, education and visibility matter, and we will continue working to slow drivers down, curb impaired driving and reinforce seat belt use across the state.”
Two posts saw an increase in fatalities. The Jackson post saw an increase from 88 in 2024 to 97 in 2025, according to the report. The post is located about 70 miles from Memphis and serves 14 counties. Law enforcement officials said the increase was mostly on rural roads.
The Chattanooga post, which includes 12 counties, experienced a slight increase from 124 to 128.
“Our focus remains on proven strategies like seat belt use, impaired driving prevention and pedestrian safety,” said Buddy Lewis, director of the Tennessee Highway Safety Office. “These numbers show progress, but they also remind us that every driver has a role in keeping our roads safe.”
