Crash Responder Safety Week recognizes all traffic incident responders in multi disciplines including emergency medical services, law enforcement, fire and rescue, transportation, towing and recovering, and public works. 

Traffic incident responders provide a critical public service by saving lives and clearing crash scenes 24-7, 365 days a year. 

Tragically, traffic incident responders are killed or injured while helping others. 

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA), along with our local and national partners, reminds motorists when approaching a traffic incident that there are “Responders Ahead! Reduce Your Speed as You Proceed” and remember Maryland’s Move Over Law requires motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing or parked vehicle displaying warning signals – including hazard warning lights, road flares or other caution signals including traffic cones, caution signs, or non-vehicular warning signs. ​.

To commemorate Crash Responder Safety Month, the State Highway Administration is hosting Truck or Treat: Meet Maryland’s Highway Heroes on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Explore their vehicles and equipment and learn about their work. Kids are encouraged to come in costume. Responders will be handing out Halloween treats. For more information, contact [email protected]​.