Maryland Roads See Significant Safety Improvement in 2025

Annapolis, MD – According to preliminary data released by the Office of Governor Wes Moore, Maryland has experienced a substantial decrease in traffic fatalities for the year 2025. The state saw an approximate 18% reduction, with the number of motor vehicle crash deaths falling from 582 in 2024 to 480 in 2025. This marks the first time statewide fatalities have dropped below 500 since 2014, representing one of the five lowest annual traffic fatality counts recorded since 1960.

The announcement highlights the impact of coordinated, data-driven safety strategies implemented under the Moore-Miller Administration. These efforts have shown particular success in protecting vulnerable road users. Pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities experienced a significant decline of 33%, decreasing from 173 in 2024 to 116 in 2025. Motorcyclist fatalities also saw a considerable reduction of 46%, with numbers dropping from 90 to 48 during the same period. These improvements are attributed to targeted investments in high-risk areas and a focus on mitigating behaviors that commonly lead to serious accidents.

The state’s progress is a result of expanded investments in education, enforcement, and engineering, bolstered by increased federal and state highway safety funding. Key initiatives have included stricter enforcement against impaired and aggressive driving, the expansion of automated speed enforcement, and sustained campaigns to promote seat belt usage. Community-based safety programs have also played a role in these efforts.

The Maryland Department of Transportation has actively worked to enhance traffic safety by implementing a new Complete Streets policy, which prioritizes the safety of all individuals using the roadways, regardless of their mode of transport. The department has also accelerated the deployment of quick-build safety improvement projects and allocated millions of dollars through the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan. Additionally, legislation was advanced to address speeding in active work zones, which is now in the process of implementation.

Despite this encouraging trend, traffic crashes continue to result in preventable fatalities and serious injuries on a daily basis. Impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and aggressive driving remain significant contributing factors. To address these ongoing issues, safety projects, policy reforms, public awareness campaigns, and enforcement efforts remain crucial for promoting safer roads throughout Maryland.

The Maryland Department of Transportation is reinforcing the message that roadway safety is a shared responsibility through its “Serious About Safety” initiative. This program utilizes community engagement, media campaigns, and enforcement support to underscore the importance of life-saving practices such as buckling up, slowing down, driving sober, avoiding distractions, and remaining vigilant for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. The state’s forthcoming 2026–2030 Strategic Highway Safety Plan is set to guide continued efforts toward improving road safety. Residents can find more information on traffic safety initiatives and resources from the Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office by visiting ZeroDeathsMD.gov or by following @ZeroDeathsMD on social media platforms.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore

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