CALIFORNIA, Md. — Warmer weather brings vacations, family gatherings, road trips and more time outdoors across Maryland. From the beaches of the Eastern Shore to busy commuter routes around Washington and Baltimore, roads often become more crowded during the summer months. That increase in travel can also bring a greater risk of serious traffic crashes.
State officials say the numbers back this up. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA), the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known nationwide as the “100 Deadliest Days” because traffic crashes and fatalities historically rise during this window. As of late June 2026, MDOT reported 173 traffic deaths statewide for the year, including 22 in June alone, as the state entered its deadliest summer stretch.
Understanding why summer driving can be more dangerous helps motorists make informed decisions before getting behind the wheel. While no single habit can eliminate risk, a combination of safe driving practices can reduce the chances of being involved in a serious collision.
Why Summer Roads Can Be More Dangerous
Summer typically means more people are traveling for recreation, holidays and weekend events. Families may head to parks, waterfront communities and local attractions, while teenagers and college students often spend more time driving during school breaks. Construction projects also tend to increase during warmer weather, creating changing traffic patterns and work zones.
In Maryland, drivers may encounter heavy traffic on major highways as well as increased activity on local roads in communities throughout Southern Maryland, Anne Arundel County and other parts of the state. More vehicles, cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians sharing the same roads can create situations that require extra attention.
Long daylight hours can encourage people to stay out later, but fatigue can still become a factor after a full day of work or recreation. Evening events, holiday celebrations and weekend travel may also lead to more impaired driving, making it important for every motorist to remain alert and prepared for unexpected situations.
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer, who also serves as Gov. Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative, said summer travel brings a predictable trade-off: more vehicles on the road, more celebrations and, as she put it, “more preventable crashes,” according to MDOT MVA.
Common Behaviors Linked To Serious Crashes
Many serious crashes involve behaviors that are preventable. Even experienced drivers can make mistakes when distracted or rushing to reach a destination.
Some of the most important risks include:
- Speeding, which reduces reaction time and increases crash severity.
- Distracted driving, including using a phone, adjusting navigation or focusing on passengers instead of the road.
- Impaired driving caused by alcohol, drugs or certain medications.
- Following too closely, leaving little room to stop safely.
- Failing to yield or obey traffic signals.
- Driving while tired, especially after long trips or late-night activities.
These behaviors become even more hazardous when roads are crowded or weather conditions change quickly. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving alone claimed 3,208 lives in 2024, and it remains a leading focus of federal traffic safety enforcement efforts.
Impairment carries similarly steep costs in Maryland specifically. MDOT MVA data shows that over the past five years, nearly 800 people have been killed and almost 15,000 injured in Maryland crashes involving impaired drivers.
Safe Driving Habits That Make A Difference
Maryland traffic safety begins with decisions drivers make every time they get into a vehicle. Small adjustments can improve safety for everyone on the road.
Always wear a seat belt and make sure every passenger is properly restrained before the vehicle starts moving. Seat belts remain one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of serious injury during a crash.
Follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed when traffic, rain or construction zones require additional caution. Driving a few minutes slower is often far safer than trying to make up time by speeding.
Keep your attention on driving. Put mobile devices away or use hands-free features only when they can be used without taking your focus off the road. If directions need to be changed or a message cannot wait, pull over somewhere safe before using a phone.
Leave extra following distance, particularly during heavy traffic or poor weather. Additional space provides more time to react if another driver brakes suddenly.
Never drive while impaired. If alcohol or drugs are involved, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare service or another safe ride home.
Plan ahead for longer trips by checking your route, allowing extra travel time and taking breaks if you begin to feel tired.
Maryland State Police, working alongside MDOT MVA’s Highway Safety Office, back these habits with enforcement. Troopers from all 23 Maryland State Police barracks — including the State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort (SPIDRE) team — conduct high-visibility patrols, DUI saturation checks and public outreach throughout the summer to deter dangerous driving.
Sharing The Road Safely
Summer often brings more people outside, increasing interactions among drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
Drivers should watch carefully at intersections, crosswalks and neighborhood streets where children may be playing or people may be walking to parks or community events. Giving cyclists enough room when passing and checking mirrors before changing lanes can help prevent dangerous collisions.
Motorcyclists may be harder to see than larger vehicles, especially during lane changes or turns. Taking an extra moment to look before pulling into traffic can reduce the chance of a serious crash.
Young and inexperienced drivers add another layer of risk during the summer months. MDOT MVA data cited by state officials shows that an average of 23 young Maryland drivers between the ages of 16 and 20 are killed in traffic crashes each year, with roughly 35% of injury crashes involving young drivers occurring between April and July.
Construction Zones Require Extra Caution
Road improvement projects are common during warmer months. Temporary lane shifts, reduced speed limits and workers close to traffic require drivers to stay alert.
Avoid sudden lane changes near construction areas and follow signs directing traffic. Maintaining a safe speed and leaving additional following distance can help protect both road crews and other motorists.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Summer Travel
Vehicle maintenance also plays a role in Maryland traffic safety. Before taking a longer trip, check tire pressure, fluid levels and windshield wipers. Make sure lights are working properly and that the brakes respond as expected.
Keeping an emergency kit with water, a flashlight and basic supplies can also be helpful if a breakdown occurs during hot weather or heavy traffic.
Every Trip Is an Opportunity to Improve Safety
No driver can control the actions of everyone else on the road, but every motorist can reduce risk through careful driving. Staying focused, avoiding impairment, obeying traffic laws and preparing for changing road conditions all contribute to safer travel.
Whether commuting through Baltimore, visiting family in Southern Maryland, heading to the Chesapeake Bay or traveling around the Washington region, safe driving habits remain important throughout the year. Summer may bring increased traffic and additional challenges, but thoughtful decisions behind the wheel can help protect drivers, passengers and everyone sharing Maryland’s roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can summer be a higher-risk season for driving? Summer often brings more travel, heavier traffic, construction projects and more pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, creating additional situations that require drivers to stay alert. MDOT MVA and Maryland State Police officials confirm this pattern each year as part of the state’s “100 Deadliest Days” safety campaign.
What are the most important safe driving habits? Wear a seat belt, avoid distractions, obey speed limits, never drive while impaired, leave enough following distance and stay alert to changing road conditions.
How can drivers prepare for a summer road trip? Check your vehicle before leaving, plan your route, allow extra travel time, take breaks during long drives and avoid driving when tired or impaired.
Why is extra caution important in construction zones? Construction zones may include changing traffic patterns, reduced speeds and workers near the roadway. Slowing down and following traffic signs helps improve safety for everyone.
Related Articles From The BayNet
- Governor Moore Unveils Maryland’s New Highway Safety Campaign, “Slow The Fast Down”
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- Maryland Records 181 Traffic Deaths So Far In 2026 After Five New Fatal Crashes Last Week
- Is Maryland A Safe Place To Drive? Here’s What The Crash Data Shows
- Real-Time Traffic Tools Every Maryland Traveler Needs This Summer
- New Maryland Law To Require Speed-Limiting Devices For Reckless Drivers Beginning In 2026
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