14 people killed on Maryland roads in one week, including over holiday weekend

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — A deadly Fourth of July holiday weekend has prompted Maryland transportation and law enforcement officials to renew calls for safe driving after 14 people were killed in crashes across the state in just one week.

According to the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Maryland State Police, 14 traffic fatalities were recorded between June 29 and July 5.

Officials said eight of those deaths have already occurred in July, including over the Independence Day holiday weekend.

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The latest fatalities bring Maryland’s preliminary total for June to 33 traffic deaths. As of July 6, 195 people have been killed on Maryland roadways in 2026, down from 235 fatalities reported at the same point last year.

In response to the recent string of deadly crashes, MDOT and Maryland State Police are reminding drivers to practice safe driving habits during the busy summer travel season.

Officials are urging motorists to:

• Obey posted speed limits, especially in work zones.
• Move over for emergency and service vehicles displaying flashing lights, or slow down if changing lanes is unsafe.
• Eliminate distractions, including cellphone use.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Wear seat belts on every trip, regardless of seating position.
• Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
• Avoid aggressive driving and allow extra travel time.

Preliminary state data shows drivers accounted for the largest share of traffic fatalities this year, with 92 driver deaths recorded through July 6.

Officials also reported 40 pedestrian deaths, 30 motorcyclist deaths, 29 passenger deaths and four bicyclist deaths so far in 2026.

MDOT noted that all fatal crash data is preliminary and remains subject to change as investigations continue.