$13.3 Million to Make Maryland Roads Safer

Dear Reader,

I wanted to share some big news that will impact everyone who drives, bikes, or walks in Maryland. Governor Wes Moore just announced over $13.3 million in federal highway safety grants to help make our roads safer. These funds go straight to 87 agencies, organizations, and programs across the state to tackle dangerous behaviors that cause crashes and take lives.

This is important because roadway fatalities in Maryland continue to rise. In 2023, 621 people died on our roads, including 158 pedestrians and 15 bicyclists. Those numbers are up from last year, and it’s a wake-up call that we can’t ignore. These grants are a direct response to this crisis, aimed at preventing crashes and saving lives. The goal is simple—get everyone home safely every day.

So, what’s the plan for this $13.3 million? It’s targeting the biggest troublemakers: distracted, impaired, and aggressive driving. You know, the stuff we all see on the roads every day—people texting, speeding, or driving drunk. The funds will back up efforts to educate the public, enforce the laws, and spread awareness, hammering home the message that safety comes first.

Another big focus is seat belt use. It sounds basic, but seat belts save lives—it’s as simple as that. The funds will help promote buckling up in all seats, front and back, making sure everyone is as protected as possible.

Pedestrian, bicyclist, and motorcyclist safety is also a priority. Whether you’re crossing the street, biking to work, or enjoying a ride on your motorcycle, you deserve to feel safe. These grants will fund safety programs specifically for those most vulnerable on our roads.

Child passenger safety is also being promoted.  The funds will help educate parents and caregivers on how to install car seats correctly, making sure kids are secure and protected if a crash happens.

These grants also beef up police training for highway safety and traffic enforcement. More trained officers on the road mean better oversight and stronger deterrents for reckless driving. And with overtime funds, enforcement doesn’t stop when regular shifts end—there’ll be officers out there around the clock, keeping the roads safe.

Plus, the grants will help improve Maryland’s traffic data systems, which is a big deal. Better data means they can spot problem areas, measure what’s working, and adjust strategies to keep making things safer.

All these efforts are part of Maryland’s Vision Zero initiative—a commitment to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2030. It’s a plan involving education, engineering, enforcement, and emergency services to make our roads safer from every angle.

But here’s the thing: No amount of funding or enforcement can do it alone. Making the roads safer starts with us. It’s about putting down the phone, slowing down, staying sober behind the wheel, and keeping your car in good shape. Every decision behind the wheel can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.

So, let’s all do our part. These funds are a great step, but the real change starts with each of us every time we’re on the road.

And remember, if you or someone you love ever needs help after an accident, I’m here for you. Call my office at 703-761-4343 or 301-949-1515

Until next time, please be safe and never text while driving.

Paul Samakow

Attorney Paul Samakow
703-761-4343 | 301-949-1515