Prince George’s County Has Maryland’s Deadliest Roads

Maryland truly has it all, boasting a wide range of attractions that cater to diverse interests. From its diverse terrain and natural wonders to naval and space facilities, museums, historic sites, wild horses, gardens, theme parks, casinos, music, film, sports, resorts, eclectic shopping, and cutting-edge dining, the state offers something for everyone. However, amidst these enticing attractions lies a concern—the roads that connect them.

According to the latest data released by the state of Maryland, 563 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2022, marking the second consecutive year with this number of fatalities. The report highlights that speeding and aggressive driving, drug and alcohol impairment, distracted driving, and failure to use seat belts were identified as the primary causes of these deaths. The pandemic contributed to increased speeds on roadways, and although traffic patterns are returning to normal, many drivers are still exceeding speed limits. A heat map reveals that most fatal crashes occurred in a belt running from southern Prince George’s County to northeast Baltimore County along the Interstate 95 corridor.

Prince George’s County had the highest number of fatalities, followed by Baltimore County and Montgomery County. The report also indicates an increase in fatalities among young drivers aged 15 to 20 and mature drivers over 65. The head of Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration emphasized that these incidents should be referred to as “crashes” rather than “accidents” since they often result from conscious decisions made by drivers. Each of these crashes represents a tragedy that forever alters the lives of the victims’ families.

It is crucial for both residents and visitors to exercise caution on Maryland’s roads, recognizing that the state’s array of attractions can pose risks. Adhering to traffic laws, avoiding distractions, and remaining vigilant can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey while exploring the diverse and captivating offerings that Maryland has to offer.

What are Maryland’s most dangerous roads?

According to a study conducted by 24/7 Wall St., Maryland has been ranked 43rd in the nation for having some of the deadliest roads. While this ranking may seem relatively low, it does not imply that our roads are entirely safe. In 2016 alone, the Maryland Department of Transportation recorded a staggering 483 fatal crashes and 34,705 accidents resulting in injuries. The following year, the number of fatal collisions increased to 517, although there was a slight decrease in the number of crashes leading to injuries, with 34,518 reported incidents. It is important to note that almost one-third of all car accidents occurred on state roads, prompting us to examine specific roadways that pose higher risks than others.

Some of Maryland’s most dangerous roads include:

• US Route 1
• Indian Head Highway (Route 210)
• MD 202 – Landover Road
• MD 90 – Ocean City Expressway
• US Route 301
• US Interstate 95
• Interstate 695 (Baltimore Beltway)

The recently unveiled Crash Fatality Dashboard of the state of Maryland features a heat map highlighting a concerning trend: a significant concentration of fatal crashes occurring in a specific area. This belt stretches from southern Prince George’s County and runs parallel to the Interstate 95 corridor, extending into northeast Baltimore County. The heatmap reveals that this particular region has experienced a higher frequency of deadly crashes, raising concerns about the safety conditions along this route.

What is being done to make the roads safer?

As part of their commitment to enhancing road safety, the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has formed a partnership with the Maryland Institute College of Art for a pedestrian safety campaign in Baltimore City. This collaboration aims to raise awareness and promote measures to prevent accidents within the city.

To further support traffic safety initiatives, MDOT is currently accepting grant applications for programs and projects focused on reducing crashes, fatalities, and injuries on Maryland roadways. These grants, funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provide an opportunity for organizations to implement impactful strategies that enhance road safety. In the previous year, MDOT awarded over $13 million in grant funds for various projects across the state.

Notably, several organizations in the D.C. region received grants, including the Prince George’s County Police Department, which received $200,000. Additionally, funding was allocated to police departments in Takoma Park, Gaithersburg, and Rockville, highlighting the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and traffic safety initiatives.

How can a Maryland car accident attorney help me?

If you are injured in a car crash on a dangerous road in Maryland, a car accident attorney can be a valuable asset in helping you through the legal process. They can provide guidance on your rights and legal options, conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, and gather relevant evidence to strengthen your case. By analyzing the circumstances of the accident and identifying liable parties, such as government agencies responsible for road maintenance, they can help you pursue a claim against the appropriate party.

Additionally, an attorney will handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and working towards securing a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If a settlement cannot be reached, they will be prepared to represent you in court, presenting your case and advocating for your interests.

At Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A., we will help maximize your compensation by accurately assessing the full extent of your losses, including current and future expenses, and seeking appropriate damages. Our experience in handling cases involving dangerous roads in Maryland can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome. With our legal support, expertise, and advocacy, you can navigate the complexities of your claim and strive to receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. If you have been involved in an accident on a dangerous road, call us at one of our many Maryland offices to schedule a free consultation. You can also use our contact form.