State transportation officials and the Maryland State Police are urging motorists to change driving habits this summer after 10 people died in traffic crashes across Maryland last week.
The fatalities raised the month’s total to 18 as of mid-July and increased the year-to-date death toll on Maryland roadways to 207, according to figures released July 13 by the Maryland Department of Transportation.
What motorists should do now
MDOT and the state police have refocused outreach around the department’s summer aggressive-driver awareness effort, called Slow the Fast Down. Officials said the campaign aims to reduce speed-related collisions and other risky behaviors as travel picks up.
"Every 12 minutes, someone dies in a speed-related crash."
In guidance distributed with the announcement, MDOT laid out practical steps drivers can take to lower crash risk:
- Obey posted speed limits and slow down, particularly in work zones.
- Move over for vehicles with flashing lights or, when lane changes aren’t safe, reduce speed and proceed with caution.
- Avoid distractions — including phones and activities that take your attention from the roadway.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Wear seat belts on every trip, in both front and rear seats.
- Share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
- Avoid aggressive driving and allow extra time to reach your destination.
Statewide trends and context
MDOT’s preliminary fatal-crash data indicate that 207 people have died on Maryland roads so far this year. That is down from 245 deaths reported at the same point last year, though the department emphasized that recent weeks demonstrate the continued danger on roadways during busy months.
| Period | Fatalities |
|---|---|
| Year-to-date (as of July 13) | 207 |
| Year-to-date (same time last year) | 245 |
| Deaths in July (so far) | 18 |
| Killed last week | 10 |
Officials framed the campaign as a reminder that routine choices behind the wheel can have deadly consequences, especially with more drivers on roads during the summer. The department and state police urged drivers to plan trips with extra time and to avoid behaviors that increase crash risk.
Local commuters and travelers should expect continued enforcement in some corridors and expanded outreach in high-crash areas, MDOT said. For more information about the awareness campaign and safety resources, the department directs motorists to its website and local media outlets for updates.
Maryland State Police and MDOT did not immediately provide additional breakdowns of the recent crashes, such as contributing factors, vehicle types or specific locations.
Residents with questions about road safety programs or who want to report hazardous conditions can contact MDOT or their local law-enforcement agency.
