Los Angeles traffic fatalities rise as police stops decline

In Los Angeles, traffic-related fatalities have risen nearly 29% between 2016 and 2023, with pedestrian deaths increasing by approximately 54%. Over the past three years, the annual death toll from traffic accidents has averaged more than 300 people.

Data from the Los Angeles Police Department shows a 57% decline in traffic stops from 2019 to 2025, dropping from roughly 71,300 to 30,800. This decline follows public pressure and reforms aimed at preventing ‘fishing’ stops and potential police misconduct. While the city is installing 125 speed cameras in high-risk areas, officials note that cameras cannot replace active police enforcement. Despite the overall drop in stops, the traffic division has increased its issuance of citations, with a 44% year-over-year increase in tickets issued through July.