Germany reports rise in child traffic accidents and fatalities

Data from the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reveals a significant increase in traffic accidents involving children in Germany during 2025. Approximately 29,270 children under the age of 15 were injured or killed, representing a 7 percent increase compared to 2024.

The number of fatalities rose from 53 in 2024 to 74 in 2025. This increase was observed across all age groups, with the most notable rise in deaths among children under six, which increased from 18 to 30. Fatalities also rose for children aged 6 to 9 and 10 to 14.

Regarding modes of transport, children traveling in passenger cars saw the largest increase in fatalities, rising from 21 to 31. Other notable increases occurred among those using bicycles and e-scooters. Overall, 34 percent of the children involved in accidents were on bicycles, 31 percent were in cars, 20 percent were pedestrians, and 8 percent were using e-scooters.

For children aged 6 to 14, the highest risk period occurs on weekdays between 7:00 and 8:00 AM, coinciding with the typical school commute. This single hour accounts for 12 percent of accidents for this age group.