People in Indiana get hurt in severe car crashes and lose loved ones in collisions all too often. Every year, law enforcement agencies gather information about every crash that occurs so that state agencies can analyze that data and act accordingly.
State and city lawmakers are not only looking at ways to change these trends, they are actively investing in solutions. In 2025, over $70 million was invested in safety-related projects across Indianapolis. The Vision Zero Task Force is currently working to design safer streets and eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2035.
But how effective are these efforts?
Declining fatalities and the road ahead
According to the task force’s first annual report, their efforts are improving Indianapolis road safety. Traffic-related deaths dropped by almost 30% over the last few years, and they are seeing a 16% year-over-year decrease.
Despite this downward trend, officials emphasize that the 85 lives lost in the past year represent a total that is still far too high, signaling that more work is needed to ensure public safety.
This work includes following advice from fatal crash review teams, increasing traffic enforcement and adding community-powered infrastructure.
Ongoing risks for pedestrians and cyclists
Vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians continue to express concerns about daily hazards. Public feedback highlights specific infrastructure issues, such as the timing of intersection walk signals that put pedestrians in direct conflict with drivers turning right.
While the city has launched a PSA campaign featuring IndyCar drivers to encourage safer habits, many residents feel that navigating the streets still feels treacherous.
Using extra caution at the wheel
Despite recent improvements in vehicle safety and enforcement efforts, serious car accidents still happen. The continuing prevalence of distracted driving, disregard for traffic ordinances and surges in impaired driving continue to contribute to the number of collisions that occur.
While you cannot control those factors, you can reduce your risk by focusing on your own safety behind the wheel. Pay attention, obey the law and drive defensively. Don’t leave your well-being to chance. Take control of your safety every time you get behind the wheel.