ANNAPOLIS — The Maryland Department of Transportation and Maryland State Police have begun a joint summer campaign to raise awareness of roadway fatalities and encourage safer driving during the busy vacation period.
The initiative publishes fatal crash statistics from across the state and reminds motorists of key safety practices. Summer months historically see higher traffic volumes and more crashes as residents and visitors travel for vacations, holidays and recreational activities.
State troopers and transportation officials urge all drivers to follow these practices to help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely:
- Obey posted speed limits and slow down, especially in work zones.
- Move over for any vehicle with flashing lights, or slow down if changing lanes is not safe.
- Avoid distractions while driving, including phones, passengers and any activity that takes attention from the road.
- Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Wear seat belts on every trip, in both the front and back seats.
- Share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
- Avoid aggressive driving and allow extra time to reach destinations.
During the reporting period of June 1–15, 2026, there were 13 fatalities across Maryland. As of June 15, 163 people have lost their lives on state roadways this year, compared with 200 at the same point in 2025.
Preliminary data for the period shows the following breakdown:
- Drivers: 10 fatalities (77 year-to-date in 2026, 233 in 2025)
- Passengers: 1 fatality (26 year-to-date in 2026, 83 in 2025)
- Pedestrians: 2 fatalities (36 year-to-date in 2026, 109 in 2025)
- Bicyclists: 0 fatalities (1 year-to-date in 2026, 10 in 2025)
- Motorcyclists: 0 fatalities (23 year-to-date in 2026, 49 in 2025)
Each fatal crash represents a life lost. The data is preliminary and subject to change.
Southern Maryland drivers traveling routes such as Maryland Route 4, Route 5 and local roads during summer months can reduce risks by following the same safety practices. Increased traffic from beachgoers and vacationers can create additional hazards in work zones and on two-lane roads.
Motorists are encouraged to plan extra travel time, stay alert and follow all traffic laws. Resources on safe driving are available through the Maryland Department of Transportation and Maryland State Police websites.
