North Dakota recorded 85 traffic deaths in 2025, the lowest annual total in 29 years. As partners gather in Bismarck for the 2026 Vision Zero Partner Conference, traffic safety leaders say the progress reflects strong statewide collaboration while reinforcing that every life lost is a tragedy and shared responsibility remains critical.
That message was central as hundreds of partners from across the state gathered May 11-12 in Bismarck for the 2026 Vision Zero Partner Conference at Bismarck State College's National Energy Center of Excellence.
The annual conference brings together professionals in education, enforcement, engineering, emergency medical services and other fields to share strategies, best practices and resources focused on reducing traffic deaths and serious injuries on North Dakota roads.
"While fewer lives were lost in 2025, 85 deaths still represent 85 families forever changed," said NDDOT Highway Safety Division Director Karin Mongeon. "Traffic deaths are largely preventable. As we see deaths trending higher so far in 2026, this conference is an important reminder that the choices each of us make behind the wheel matter every day."
Conference sessions focused on current traffic safety challenges, emerging trends, enforcement strategies, public education, roadway safety improvements and collaboration among agencies and communities statewide. Attendees also had the opportunity to earn continuing education and professional development credits.
During the conference, partners and advocates from across North Dakota were recognized for outstanding service and leadership in advancing traffic safety.
Vision Zero is a statewide initiative dedicated to eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries through shared responsibility, data-driven strategies and safe choices by all road users.
For more information on the Vision Zero Partner Conference and the Vision Zero strategy, visit VisionZero.ND.gov.