Pennsylvania sees decline in fatal crashes in 2025. Here’s a look at Centre County data
The number of people killed in traffic crashes in Pennsylvania reached a new low in 2025, though the numbers haven’t had much movement in Centre County.
New statistics released Wednesday by the state Department of Transportation show total crashes have settled nearly 15% below pre-pandemic levels, even as fatal crashes fluctuate sharply year to year. There were as few as six in 2024 and as many as 16 in 2022.
Where fatal crashes are happening in Centre County
Twenty-one of Centre County’s 35 municipalities reported at least one deadly crash in the past half-decade. More than one-third of those crashes occurred in rural Boggs, Potter, Rush or Spring townships, areas anchored by major highways.
When are these deadly crashes happening?
Fatal crashes are spread across the calendar, with only a modest increase in the summer. According to the National Safety Council, traffic deaths nationwide often peak from May through November when miles traveled are at their highest.
What’s causing these crashes?
Statewide, fatalities where someone wasn’t wearing a seat belt, a driver was impaired or there was a lane departure dropped last year to the lowest on record. Deadly crashes involving aggressive driving, meanwhile, have increased 31% since 2020.
Since 2021, there have been eight fatal pedestrian and six fatal motorcycle crashes in Centre County. There were two such crashes involving a bicyclist, two involving an all-terrain vehicle and one involving a horse and buggy.
Crashes are one of the top causes of death in Pennsylvania
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, crashes are the third leading cause of death in Pennsylvania, trailing only heart disease and cancer.