Maryland traffic fatalities drop to decade-low in 2025

MARYLAND (WBFF) — Governor Wes Moore announced that Maryland’s traffic fatalities for 2025 marked a decade low with an 18% decrease from the previous year.

Officials say preliminary data show motor vehicle crash deaths fell from 582 in 2024 to 480 in 2025, the first time fatalities have been below 500 since 2014.

“There is no greater priority than protecting our people,” said Gov. Moore. “The decline we’re seeing in motor vehicle fatalities shows that when we act with urgency and data-driven strategies, we can save lives.”

Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller emphasized the importance of continued efforts, stating, “While we are encouraged by the decline in motor vehicle fatalities, our work is not done until every person, whether they are driving, walking, or biking, can get where they are going safely.” The 2025 total is among the five lowest annual traffic fatality counts since 1960, highlighting the impact of coordinated safety strategies under the Moore-Miller Administration.

Significant reductions were noted among vulnerable road users, with pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities dropping 33% and motorcyclist fatalities declining 46%.

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Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Katie Thomson urged continued vigilance, saying, “All of us, including those behind the wheel to those walking across the street, share a responsibility in keeping Maryland’s roads safe.”

The decline follows expanded state investments in education, enforcement, and engineering, supported by increased federal and state highway safety funding. Efforts include strengthened enforcement for impaired and aggressive driving, automated speed enforcement expansion, and increased seat belt use campaigns. The Maryland Department of Transportation has also released a new Complete Streets policy and accelerated safety improvement projects.

Despite the progress, traffic crashes remain a leading cause of preventable deaths and serious injuries. Maryland’s 2026–2030 Strategic Highway Safety Plan aims to guide continued progress.

More information on traffic safety initiatives can be found at ZeroDeathsMD.gov.