BALTIMORE, MD—Maryland’s Department of Transportation (MDOT) is urging travelers to prioritize safety during the busy holiday season, as the agency anticipates a surge in travelers.

The holiday travel period, which runs from Dec. 21, 2024, to Jan. 1, 2025, is expected to see a significant increase in the number of travelers on Maryland roads and at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. MDOT Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld stressed the importance of driving safely, urging travelers to drive sober, buckle up, and stay focused while behind the wheel.

“I urge all Marylanders to put safety first as we travel to gather with loved ones, celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year,” said Wiedefeld. “Data shows us that serious and fatal crashes increase during the holiday season and by taking extra precautions such as slowing down, paying attention and driving sober, we can save lives and arrive alive.”

The agency is encouraging motorists to familiarize themselves with and comply with the “Move Over” laws, requiring drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching stopped vehicles displaying warning signals. MDOT is urging motorists to comply with the “Move Over” laws, which mandate changing lanes or slowing down when approaching vehicles displaying warning signals.

AAA projects that more than 119 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holidays, representing a record high. AAA reports this year’s projection exceeds the 2019 record by about 64,000 travelers. The majority of travelers, 107 million, plan to travel by car, while nearly 8 million plan to fly. The remaining travelers will utilize alternative modes of transportation such as trains, buses, or boats.

MDOT is promoting a series of highway safety resolutions for a safe and enjoyable holiday travel experience:

• Drive Sober: Never drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Plan ahead for a sober ride home.
• Buckle Up: Ensure all passengers, including those seated in the back, are properly using seat belts.
• Slow Down: Adhere to all posted speed limits.
• Pay Attention: Eliminate all distractions and focus only on driving.
• Share the Road: Be aware of pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Exercise caution and look twice before proceeding.
• Move Over: When approaching stopped vehicles with warning signals, slow down or safely change lanes to provide ample space for those working or assisting along roadways.

The department reminds travelers that most crashes, fatalities, and injuries are preventable, and that the holiday season is an ideal time to resolve to adopt safe driving practices.

Law enforcement officers will be on patrol to enforce traffic laws and prevent traffic-related deaths, including stopping suspected impaired drivers. Those driving under the influence risk arrest, jail time, legal costs, and fines in addition to putting themselves and others at risk of injury or death.

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport expects a surge in passenger traffic over the holiday travel period, following a record-breaking summer. The airport is collaborating with airline and security partners to ensure a seamless and positive travel experience for passengers.

Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport two hours prior to their scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for parking, airline ticketing, and TSA security screening. BWI Marshall Airport offers approximately 25,000 parking spaces for travelers, with an additional 3,000 spaces located nearby at the BWI Rail Station garage. To alleviate potential traffic congestion, local motorists are encouraged to utilize the airport’s upper-level roadway, or departures level, when dropping off or picking up arriving passengers during peak periods.

The airport’s website, https://www.BWIairport.com, provides real-time information about flight status, parking availability, and security checkpoint wait times. Travelers are reminded to pack thoughtfully and to check the TSA’s website, TSA.gov, for information about prohibited items.

To mitigate potential traffic congestion on Maryland highways, travelers are encouraged to travel off-peak, if possible. The SHA will suspend non-emergency lane closures from Monday, Dec. 23 after 5 a.m. through Thursday, Dec. 26 at 9 a.m. and after 5 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28 through Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025 at 9 a.m. Real-time roadway conditions and live traffic cameras can be accessed at chart.maryland.gov.

The SHA’s Coordinated Highways Action Response Team (CHART), along with units from the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA), will be on patrol to assist motorists with breakdowns or incidents. In the event of a roadside emergency requiring a stop, assess the situation first. If it is safe to remain in the vehicle, stay buckled and face forward. If exiting the vehicle is necessary, move as far away from the vehicle and roadway as possible.

Maryland utilizes E-ZPass, Pay-By-Plate, and Video Tolling to collect tolls. E-ZPass offers the most cost-effective option, saving drivers up to 77% compared to higher rates and eliminating the paperwork associated with Video Tolls. Pay-By-Plate automatically bills tolls to registered credit cards for Maryland toll facilities, eliminating the need for transponders or pre-paid deposits. Pay-By-Plate rates mirror the former cash rates. Drivers can learn more about E-ZPass or sign up for Pay-By-Plate at https://www.driveezmd.com/acct-types/.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Police remind drivers that operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter medications, is strictly prohibited. Impaired driving poses a significant risk to your safety and the safety of others.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Pixabay