Car crashes in S.F. cost billions, report reveals

San Francisco's traffic collisions have incurred an estimated $2. 5 billion in costs from 2018 to 2022, with over 33,000 injuries and nearly 200 fatalities reported. In 2024, the city saw 42 traffic deaths, while collision-related costs rose from $45 million in 2018 to $81 million in 2022. The report indicates that 3. 2 percent of these costs, approximately $81 million, were paid for by the city and state.

Supervisor Myrna Melgar has called for a hearing to discuss measures to reduce traffic-related fatalities and expenses. It highlights the need for the Municipal Transportation Agency and Department of Public Health to take more proactive steps in enhancing road safety. Jodie Medeiros, executive director of Walk San Francisco, pointed out the absence of a Vision Zero policy, which could help prioritize traffic safety. The report also mentions that the City Attorney’s Office paid $61. 4 million in settlements for crashes involving city vehicles from 2020 to 2024.

As traffic fatalities continue to rise, city leaders must act to protect lives and reduce financial burdens on the city.