Japan's Traffic Deaths Decline in 2024

Japan's traffic death toll in 2024 decreased by 15 from the previous year, reaching 2,663, marking the third-lowest level on record. This positive trend follows a concerning rise in 2023, the first increase in eight years, which coincided with the relaxation of pandemic restrictions.

Tokyo recorded the highest number of traffic fatalities among the country's 47 prefectures, with 146 deaths. Aichi followed with 141 deaths, and Chiba with 131. Shimane reported the least number of deaths with nine, followed by Tottori with 15, and Kochi with 21.

The number of victims aged 65 or older rose by 47 to 1,513, accounting for 56.8% of the total fatalities. Additionally, the total number of traffic accidents decreased by 17,138 to 290,792.

The government aims to further reduce the annual death toll to below 2,000 by 2025. This goal reflects the ongoing efforts to improve road safety and promote responsible driving behavior across the country.