Fewer people have died on Maryland roads so far this year, including during the summer stretch transportation officials call the "100 Deadliest Days."
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, 136 people were killed in crashes across Maryland, compared with 152 during the same period in 2025, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation.
The decline extends beyond the summer. Through Sept. 7, Maryland recorded 290 roadway deaths in 2026, compared with 332 at the same point last year, a decrease of about 13 percent.
"While Maryland has seen fewer roadway fatalities compared with this time last year, every life lost in a crash is a tragedy that affects families, friends and communities across our state," Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer said in a statement. "Every roadway death is preventable."
Through August, only one month this year saw more roadway deaths than the same month in 2025.
| Month | 2026 | 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 19 | +5 |
| February | 41 | 27 | +14 |
| March | 30 | 41 | -11 |
| April | 47 | 38 | +9 |
| May | 40 | 33 | +7 |
| June | 40 | 39 | +1 |
| July | 55 | 46 | +9 |
| August | 41 | 39 | +2 |
The state's fatality data also show drivers accounted for the largest share of deaths so far this year, followed by pedestrians and passengers. Through the latest reporting period, 234 drivers, 109 pedestrians, 83 passengers, 49 motorcyclists and 10 bicyclists had been killed on Maryland roads.
Transportation officials said the figures are preliminary and subject to change.
As fall approaches, officials are urging drivers to obey speed limits, avoid distractions and impaired driving, wear seat belts and watch for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists. Drivers are also reminded to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights when required and to move over for vehicles with flashing lights.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Across Maryland Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.