Maryland Pedestrian Safety Alert: Officials Urge Caution as Daylight Fades

Maryland transportation officials are issuing an urgent safety warning to all road users. The alert comes as daylight hours shorten and Halloween approaches. The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is leading the campaign.

This public awareness push aligns with National Pedestrian Safety Month. Officials stress that decreased visibility creates hazardous conditions for pedestrians and drivers alike. The call to action is for everyone to be more vigilant.

Alarming Statistics Underpin Safety Plea

Recent data highlights the critical need for this warning. According to MDOT, Maryland recorded 2,808 pedestrian crashes in 2024. These incidents resulted in 154 fatalities and thousands of injuries.

National figures from the NHTSA are equally sobering. In 2023, 7,314 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across the United States. These numbers underscore a persistent public safety crisis.

Officials Emphasize Shared Responsibility on Roads

MDOT Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle is leading the call for caution. She urged all Marylanders to be “Serious About Safety” to save lives. The early evening darkness makes it harder to see people walking or biking.

State Highway Administrator Will Pines echoed this sentiment. He specifically asked drivers to pay extra attention to their surroundings. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable during this time of year.

MDOT MVA Administrator Chrissy Nizer highlighted simple, life-saving actions. Slowing down, staying focused, and driving sober can make a critical difference. These choices protect the most vulnerable road users.

Practical Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians

MDOT has released clear guidelines for Halloween and beyond. Peak trick-or-treating hours on October 31st are between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. This period requires maximum alertness from everyone.

Drivers are urged to stay alert and slow down. They must stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, as it is state law. Entering and exiting driveways slowly is also crucial.

Motorists should always drive sober and ensure all vehicle lights work. On Halloween, they must watch for children moving between parked cars. Expecting the unexpected can prevent tragedy.

Pedestrians must also take proactive steps. They should pay attention to their surroundings and use sidewalks and crosswalks. Looking left, right, and left again before crossing is essential.

Avoiding dark clothing and wearing bright, reflective items is critical after dark. Pedestrians should activate the pedestrian signal button and wait for the “walk” signal. These simple actions significantly increase visibility and safety.

Info at your fingertips

What are the pedestrian fatality statistics in Maryland?

In 2024, Maryland reported 154 pedestrian fatalities from vehicle crashes. This is part of 2,808 total pedestrian crashes recorded this year.

Why is October a particularly dangerous month for pedestrians?

Daylight hours shorten significantly in October, reducing visibility during evening commutes. The Halloween holiday also puts more children on the streets after dark.

What is the most important safety tip for drivers?

Staying alert, slowing down, and always stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks is paramount. Driving sober is equally critical for preventing fatalities.

How can pedestrians make themselves more visible?

Wearing bright-colored clothing and using reflective gear is highly effective after dark. Avoiding dark outfits and masks that limit vision is also recommended.

What is MDOT’s long-term plan for pedestrian safety?

MDOT released a Pedestrian Safety Action Plan in May 2023. The agency is also partnering on “quick-build” demonstration projects to improve road safety.