New data reveals stark disparities in traffic-related fatalities among Chicago’s Black, Latino, and older residents. Black Chicagoans are nearly four times more likely to die in traffic crashes compared to White residents. Latino residents face almost double the risk of fatal crashes compared to their White counterparts. Additionally, individuals aged 70 and older are more than 1.7 times as likely to die in traffic incidents compared to those aged 20 to 69.
These alarming statistics, compiled by the Chicago Department of Transportation and the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions. Alderman Daniel La Spata emphasized the equity implications, stating, “This impacts Black and Brown communities, it impacts children and seniors the most. We cannot claim in the city to care about equity if we don’t care about traffic violence.”
Despite comprising only 29% of Chicago’s population, Black residents accounted for 61% of traffic deaths in 2021. In contrast, White residents, who make up about 33% of the population, represented just 13% of fatalities. The concentration of fatal crashes on the South and West sides further highlights the geographic and racial disparities.
Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, noted the complexity of traffic-related mortality, stating, “What we know is that traffic-related mortality disproportionately impacts people of color … what we do not know is why.” This sentiment is echoed by national data, which shows higher rates of traffic fatalities among people of color across the U.S.
See: “Black, Latino and Older Chicagoans More Likely to Die in Traffic Crashes, Data Shows” (January 6, 2025)
