HANOVER, MD – With millions of Marylanders preparing to travel for Thanksgiving, the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is emphasizing safety on the roads, rails, and in the skies. As one of the busiest travel periods approaches, officials are urging residents and visitors to plan ahead, stay alert, and follow safety protocols to ensure a smooth journey.
“As families and friends gather to celebrate the holidays, I encourage everyone to keep the joyous spirit in their travels by being safe, paying attention, taking your time, and being courteous to each other,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “You can help save lives by having a plan for a sober ride and ensuring everyone is buckled up. Whether you are traveling by car, plane, or train, the Maryland Department of Transportation will help you get to your destination safely.”
National Travel Trends
AAA forecasts nearly 80 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving, marking an increase of 1.7 million travelers from 2023 and setting a new record. Approximately 71.74 million are expected to travel by car, with 5.8 million choosing to fly. Others will rely on trains, buses, or boats.
Given the anticipated surge in travel, MDOT and law enforcement are urging drivers to adhere to traffic laws, avoid impaired driving, and remain cautious near rail crossings. So far in 2024, Maryland has recorded 505 roadway fatalities—avoidable tragedies that MDOT aims to reduce through public awareness and enforcement.
Tips for Safer Holiday Driving
To prevent accidents during the high-traffic holiday week, MDOT emphasizes these guidelines:
- Drive sober: Arrange for a sober ride if needed.
- Buckle up: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Follow speed limits: Avoid speeding to minimize risk.
- Stay focused: Avoid distractions such as phone use while driving.
- Travel during off-peak times: Allow extra time to avoid rush-hour delays.
- Move over for emergency vehicles: It’s both a legal requirement and a safety measure.
State police will be on patrol to enforce traffic laws and intercept impaired drivers, who face legal consequences including fines, jail time, and increased insurance costs.
BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport Gears Up
BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport expects robust travel numbers, following record-breaking summer passenger volumes. Executive Director Ricky Smith encourages travelers to plan ahead for a smooth airport experience.
Passengers should arrive two hours prior to departure, use the airport’s upper-level roadway to avoid congestion, and check BWI’s website for parking and security updates. Additionally, the TSA website offers guidelines for packing and screening processes.
Avoid Peak Traffic
MDOT recommends traveling outside peak congestion times.
- Bay Bridge Eastbound: Best times include mornings before 10 a.m. or evenings after 8 p.m.
- I-95 Corridor: Travel before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
Live updates are available at chart.maryland.gov. Emergency roadside assistance will be provided by MDOT’s Coordinated Highways Action Response Team (CHART).
Public Transit Options
The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) encourages using public transit for local visits and holiday shopping. With real-time tracking available through the Transit app, MTA services include local buses, light rail, and MARC Train services operating modified schedules during the holiday.
MVA Holiday Hours
MVA branch offices and Vehicle Emission Inspection Program (VEIP) stations will close on Thanksgiving Day but self-service kiosks and online services will remain available. Normal operations resume Friday, November 29.
For additional updates, follow MDOT on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.
