Traffic deaths are on the rise in Champaign County in 2025, according to a review of news reports from the Regional Planning Commission.
Officials say reports show 15 people have died from vehicle crashes in the county this year—and 13 died from traffic incidents within the first six months. That would represent the highest number of deaths from crashes in the area so far than at this point in any year over the past two decades.
Susan Ebert, a planner with the Regional Planning Commission, says there is no clear reason why the county has seen that increase. She said for at least five of the fatalities, police suspected that those involved may have been impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Ebert added the list of traffic deaths also includes two pedestrians who were “out in the roadway where they should not have been traveling” as well as one person riding a bicycle on an interstate highway where cyclists are not allowed.
“Safety is always paramount, so we’ve been working a long time at seeing how we can improve the transportation system so that fewer people are going to be dying, fewer people going to be severely injured, and just making generally transportation safer for everyone who uses it,” she said.
Ten people died from traffic fatalities in Champaign County over the entire year in 2024, according to data from the Regional Planning Commission.
The group has launched an interactive map and survey to take input on safety concerns and areas that residents think are more dangerous.
Ebert said those who visit the site can share what would make traveling on the county’s roads and streets feel safer. They can also use the map to mark locations that may have safety challenges.
“We’re just inviting countywide to learn more about problem areas, and maybe we’re going to see some patterns there that are actionable short term, or maybe there’s some longer-term things that the municipalities and agencies in the area can work on to make things safer.”
Ebert said the information will be used to guide future roadway changes, such as new bike lanes or intersection designs. Results will also shape efforts to better educate people about the rules of the road.
“We’d like to see zero fatal victims of crashes and a lot fewer severe injuries. And so we really hope people will help us out with this.”