Enhancing Traffic Safety Data Systems: Maryland Receives $13.2M
GLEN BURNIE, MD – In a groundbreaking move to bolster traffic safety measures, Maryland has secured a substantial $13.2 million federal grant over five years. This funding aims to revolutionize the state’s crash reporting systems and enhance the sharing of critical traffic safety data across various local, state, and federal agencies.
Maryland’s Mission to Enhance Safety
The National Highway Transportation Safety Association’s (NHTSA) State Electronic Data Collection (SEDC) grant program, a pivotal component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is the driving force behind this financial boost. The primary goal is to streamline electronic crash data collection and transfer processes, ultimately advancing safety measures on Maryland’s roads.
Maryland stands among 19 states and territories selected to benefit from this program. The grant will play a pivotal role in empowering the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), Maryland State Police, and the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) in their joint efforts to curtail traffic-related injuries and fatalities.
Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld underscored the significance of safety in Maryland’s agenda. “Safety is the cornerstone of the Maryland Department of Transportation as we work to bend the curve and rapidly reduce fatal crashes,” he stated. The federal grant is poised to streamline data processes and equip the Department with informed decision-making capabilities to target safety enhancements effectively.
Grant-Funded Enhancements to Maryland’s Traffic Safety Data Systems
The $13.2 million grant is earmarked for several key initiatives aimed at fortifying Maryland’s traffic safety infrastructure:
– Upgrading the electronic data transfer process to align with updated crash reporting standards.
– Providing comprehensive training for local law enforcement on crash data collection.
– Conducting a thorough inventory of traffic records to ensure completeness and accuracy.
– Aligning with the Model Minimum Uniform Crash Criteria, sixth edition.
– Automating the integration of emergency medical services (EMS) data with police crash reports.
Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr., Superintendent of the Maryland State Police, emphasized the critical role of accurate crash data in achieving the state’s safety objectives. “Ensuring the accuracy and accessibility of crash data is paramount in saving lives and enhancing highway safety,” he remarked.
Impact of Modernization Efforts on Maryland’s Highway Safety
The infusion of grant funds is poised to revolutionize Maryland’s approach to highway safety. By automating the integration of EMS data with police crash reports, discrepancies will be reduced, and data reliability will be significantly enhanced. This initiative underscores Maryland’s commitment to a multi-disciplined approach to improving highway safety.
Dr. Theodore Delbridge, Executive Director of MIEMSS, hailed the grant funding as a catalyst for strengthening data links between EMS and law enforcement. This enhanced collaboration will facilitate more efficient evaluations of critical trends and the development of impactful strategies to bolster highway safety.
The revamped crash data systems are anticipated to benefit a diverse array of users, from national agencies to local entities. By providing the necessary tools to identify safety issues and implement targeted interventions, these enhanced systems are poised to save lives and prevent injuries on Maryland’s roads.
For more information on Maryland’s highway safety initiatives, visit ZeroDeathsMD.gov or follow @ZeroDeathsMD on social media platforms.
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