GLEN BURNIE, Md. — The Maryland Department of Transportation and Maryland State Police continue to urge motorists to Slow the Fast Down and drive safely during the summer travel season and follow these important safety reminders:
- Prepare for roadside emergencies by keeping your vehicle in good working condition and carrying an emergency kit.
- If you have a flat tire, prioritize your safety over changing the tire. Pull off the roadway to a safe location if possible, turn on your hazard lights and call for roadside assistance if needed.
- Look twice before changing lanes and turning, as motorcyclists can be harder to see, especially in a vehicle’s blind spot.
- Share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
- Obey posted speed limits and slow down, especially in work zones.
- Move over for any vehicle with flashing lights, or slow down if you cannot safely change lanes.
- Avoid distractions while driving — including phones, passengers and any activity that takes your attention away from the road ahead.
- Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Wear seat belts on every trip, in the front seat and back seat.
- Avoid aggressive driving and give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination.
Fatal Crash Data
Between July 27 and Aug. 2, 2026, six fatalities were recorded across the state, bringing the total for July to 37 fatalities. As of Aug. 3, 2026, 233 people have lost their lives on Maryland roadways this year, compared to 279 at this time last year.
Each fatal crash represents a life lost on Maryland’s roadways. The table below represents all reported fatal crashes throughout the state. Data is preliminary and subject to change.
| August 2026 | July 2026 | 2026 Total Year to Date | 2025 Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | 1 | 17 | 107 | 234 |
| Passengers | 0 | 5 | 33 | 83 |
| Pedestrians | 1 | 4 | 47 | 109 |
| Bicyclists | 0 | 0 | 6 | 10 |
| Motorcyclists | 0 | 11 | 40 | 49 |
The Maryland Department of Transportation is Serious About Safety. Learn more about the Highway Safety Office and Maryland’s safety efforts at ZeroDeathsMD.gov or on Facebook, X and Instagram at @ZeroDeathsMD.