Nashville Pedestrian and Cyclist Deaths Rose in 2026

The city recorded 28 traffic-related fatalities involving people walking or biking throughout the year.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Accidents

Nashville Pedestrian and Cyclist Deaths Rose in 2026

Live Poll

Is pedestrian and cyclist safety in your area getting better or worse?

Nashville saw a slight increase in traffic-related deaths for pedestrians and cyclists in 2026, with the annual total rising to 28. This figure surpassed the 27 deaths reported in 2025 according to data presented by the Metro Greenways and Open Space Commission.

Why it matters

Rising fatality numbers highlight persistent safety concerns for non-motorized commuters, especially as daylight hours decrease during fall and winter. City officials are looking to address these risks through infrastructure investments approved by voters.

Nashville recorded 28 pedestrian and cyclist deaths in 2026, an increase from the 27 fatalities documented in 2025. The city is currently moving forward with the Choose How You Move program to mitigate future roadway risks.

The players

Metro Greenways and Open Space Commission

This local government body monitors and reports on public access and safety across Nashville's network of greenways and open spaces.

The details

The city is currently working to implement safety upgrades through the voter-approved Choose How You Move transportation program. This initiative is funding the construction of 86 miles of new sidewalks and signal improvements at 592 intersections across Nashville.

In 2025, 27 pedestrians and cyclists died in Nashville.
Throughout 2026, 28 pedestrians and cyclists have died in Nashville.

Legal Context

Recent traffic fatalities in Nashville contrast with the goals of the Choose How You Move transportation program, a voter-approved initiative aimed at improving roadway safety. This trend reflects ongoing regional challenges in balancing automotive traffic with pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure needs.

Residents should exercise increased caution while navigating local intersections, particularly as visibility decreases during autumn and winter months. The ongoing construction projects funded by the Choose How You Move program may also result in localized traffic detours or road work zones.

The takeaway

Commuters should prioritize high-visibility gear when walking or biking during limited daylight hours to increase safety. The upcoming infrastructure projects represent the primary city-level effort to address these ongoing roadway fatality trends.