On February 3, 2026, Governor Wes Moore announced substantial progress towards safer roads in the State of Maryland. He attributed the decline to urgency and data-driven strategies, aimed at saving lives.
- According to early data, traffic fatalities fell 18% in 2025.
- Fatalities: 582 in 2024 ↓ 480 in 2025
- 2025 ranks among the five lowest fatality counts since 1960 in the State of Maryland.
- First-time crash fatalities in Maryland have dropped below 500 since 2014.
Governor Moore emphasized the power of coordinated action, sustained investment in our communities and throughout the transportation systems, particularly in high-risk corridors. The largest gains were seen among:
| 2024 | 2025 | % drop | |
| Pedestrian and bicycle fatalities: | 173 | 115 | 33%↓ |
| Motorcycle fatalities: | 90 | 4 | 46%↓ |
Ongoing Programs for Safety in Maryland
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has developed the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan (PSAP), which seeks to make our streets safer for everyone by making them safer for pedestrians and cyclists. The plan will improve safety by providing specific actions and strategies and prioritizing corridors through a data–driven process guided by land use context and supported by community input.
Chrissy Nizer, Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administrator, states, “The reduction in roadway fatalities shows what’s possible when state and local partners work together with a shared focus on saving lives.”
Another key program is the MDOT Serious About Safety, which is the heart of DOT’s commitment to safety, emphasizing that roadway safety is a shared responsibility, not an option. Serious About Safety initiatives include:
- MDOT-led Initiatives: transforming business practices to prioritize safety in every project and policy
- Legislative Action: collaborating on legislation essential for enhancing safety outcomes
- Collaborative Advocacy: leading and partnering to deliver measurable action to improve outcomes
- Customer Engagement: raising awareness through outreach
Through 2026-2030, Maryland has developed a Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) to help achieve the goal of zero roadway deaths. In 2019, the Maryland General Assembly adopted Vision Zero legislation with a goal of eliminating motor vehicle-related fatalities and serious injury by 2030, emphasizing infrastructure, driver behavior, enforcement, education, and emergency response.
How Can Maryland Citizens Become Involved?
“All of us behind the wheel to those walking on the street share a responsibility in keeping Maryland’s roads safe. I encourage everyone to keep making safe choices, pay attention, slow down, and drive sober,” stated Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Katie Thomson.
MDOT asks all citizens to:
- Take the Pledge & Practice Safe Driving: Vision Zero Safety Pledge
- Report Infrastructure Issue: for unsafe road conditions
- Engage in Local Advocacy: participate in Vision Zero meetings in your community
- Participate in Education Events: Attend or host safety events.
- Support Legislation: advocate for stronger safety laws, including speed safety cameras
- Utilize Resources: access education materials from Zero Deaths Maryland
Local County Programs where you can be involved:
- Vision Zero Prince Georges
- Vision Zero | Montgomery County, MD
- Anne Arundel County Vision Zero
- Charles County Local Roadway Safety Plan
- St. Mary’s County Local Roadway Safety Plan
- STRATEGIC ROADWAY SAFETY PLAN CALVERT COUNTY Howard County Strategic Road Safety PlanVision Zero Action Plan | Streets of Baltimore
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Maryland, contact the experienced attorneys at Joseph Greenwald & Laake, P.A.
