Baltimore, Maryland – The period between Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous travel windows of winter in Maryland, particularly across the Baltimore metro area and central portions of the state, according to transportation safety trends and winter driving patterns.
State transportation officials say crash risk often increases after Christmas even when traffic volumes appear lighter. The days following Dec. 25 combine return travel, driver fatigue, refreezing road conditions, and uneven traffic patterns, creating hazards that are frequently underestimated.
One of the most significant risks is overnight refreeze. Maryland often experiences daytime melting followed by colder nighttime temperatures, which can turn residual moisture into black ice. This hazard is especially common on bridges, ramps, and elevated roadways along Interstates 95, 83, 70, and 695, as well as on major commuter routes connecting Baltimore, Washington, and surrounding suburbs.
Post-holiday fatigue is another major contributor. Drivers returning from overnight trips, late family gatherings, or long-distance holiday travel often resume commuting with less sleep. Reduced alertness can slow reaction times and impair decision-making, particularly during early morning and evening travel.
Traffic patterns during the post-Christmas period can be unpredictable. While some residents remain on holiday break, others return to work, leading to sudden congestion and inconsistent speeds across urban roads and suburban highways. The mix of commuter traffic and long-distance travel through central Maryland further elevates crash risk.
Emergency responders report that many post-Christmas crashes in Maryland involve single vehicles, often tied to loss of control on icy pavement rather than heavy traffic. Secondary roads and residential streets may remain icy longer than major highways.
Officials urge drivers to treat the Dec. 26–Jan. 2 period with the same caution as major holiday travel days. Slowing down, allowing extra time, and staying alert on familiar routes can significantly reduce risk as Maryland heads into the new year.
