MDTA Police Conduct High Visibility Enforcement across Maryland
Coordinated Effort with Partner Agencies Reminds Motorists to Buckle Up, Drive Safely
BALTIMORE, MD (May 11, 2021) – In response to concerns about unsafe driving behaviors and the rising number of traffic deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Police enhanced its traffic safety enforcement and awareness efforts across Maryland on Monday. Officers from all MDTA Police detachments – MDTA toll bridges, tunnels and highways; BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport; and the Port of Baltimore – participated in the initiative, which stretched across eight counties and Baltimore City.
“Last year, 569 members of our families, workplaces and communities tragically lost their lives on Maryland roadways while driving, riding, walking or biking,” said MDTA Police Chief Colonel Kevin M. Anderson. “What’s the single most important step to protect yourself and your loved ones before you even start the ignition? Making sure you and everyone in your vehicle is buckled.”
MDTA Police Officers conducted 707 traffic stops during the initiative. Officers arrested one driver suspected of being impaired, and two persons wanted on open warrants for criminal charges. During one arrest, a Baltimore man was taken into custody on an open warrant through the Baltimore Police Department for his alleged role in an assault case involving a firearm.
MDTA Police patrol officers were supported by specialized units such as the agency’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Unit, Criminal Investigations Unit, Homeland Enforcement and Traffic (HEAT) Team and Motors Unit. The MDTA Police also partnered with the Maryland State Police, Anne Arundel County Police and the Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff during the initiative.
The MDTA Police encourages all motorists to “Be the driver who saves lives” and work together as partners to help make Maryland’s roadways safe for all users. Please remember to:
- Obey posted speed limits.
- Buckle up. Every seat. Every time. Day and night.
- MOVE OVER for emergency vehicles, tow trucks and service vehicles.
- Avoid distractions and devote your full attention to the road.
- Watch for motorcycles, bikes and pedestrians.
- Drive sober or make a plan for a designated driver.
MDTA Police Officers will continue regular patrols and targeted high visibility enforcement. To report dangerous driving on Maryland toll roads, call MDTA Police Dispatch at 410-537-7911.
The Maryland Transportation Authority Police, a nationally accredited force, is the seventh-largest law enforcement agency in the State with more than 600 sworn and civilian law enforcement professionals. MDTA Police Officers provide law enforcement services at the MDTA’s highways, bridges and tunnels, at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport and at the Port of Baltimore.