Cycling safety in Maryland

Crash data

11 cyclist fatalities in 2024 .

In 2024, 11 bicyclists were killed on Maryland roads, about 2% of the state's 578 total motor-vehicle traffic deaths (source: IIHS state-by-state fatality facts, which are compiled from NHTSA's FARS). This is down from recent years (Maryland reported roughly 13 bicyclist deaths through much of 2023). A clean statewide bicyclist-injury count for a single year could not be confirmed from an official source, so cyclistInjuries is set to null: Maryland's Highway Safety Office (Zero Deaths Maryland) cites an approximate figure of ~789 cyclists injured per year in crashes with motor vehicles, but it is stated as a rough annual average without a specific reference year.

Official reports & data:

Cycling rules in Maryland

Helmets: Maryland law requires every bicyclist under age 16 (including passengers) to wear a properly fitted, fastened bicycle helmet when riding on any public property, including roads, bike paths and sidewalks. Helmets are recommended, but not required, for riders 16 and older. (source)
Passing distance: Maryland has a 3-foot passing law: a driver overtaking a bicyclist must leave at least three feet of clearance when passing. (source)
Sidewalk riding: Sidewalk riding is governed locally, not by a single statewide rule — it is allowed only where a local ordinance permits it, so rules vary by city/county. Check the local code before riding on sidewalks. (source)
Lights & reflectors at night: When ridden at night or when people and vehicles are not clearly visible at 1,000 feet, a bicycle must have a lamp on the front (white light, visible from about 500 feet) and a red rear reflector visible from about 600 feet; a red rear lamp may be added but does not replace the required reflector (Md. Transportation Article §21-1207). (source)
Direction of travel / where to ride: Ride with traffic (same direction as vehicles) and as close to the right side of the road as is practicable and safe, except when turning left, passing, avoiding hazards, on a one-way street, or where the lane is too narrow to share. Where a usable bike lane or paved shoulder exists, cyclists must generally use it rather than the travel lane, with the same exceptions. (source)
E-bikes: Maryland classifies electric bicycles under the standard 3-class system (§11-117.1): Class 1 (pedal-assist to 20 mph) and Class 2 (throttle to 20 mph), and Class 3 (assist to 28 mph). Compliant e-bikes are treated much like regular bicycles on roads and bike lanes; Class 3 riders must be at least 16 years old, and local rules may restrict Class 3 on certain paths/trails. (source)
Prohibited roads: MDOT SHA may prohibit bicycles on highways that are not suitable for them; bicycles are banned from all Interstates and a number of listed state/US routes and bridges (e.g., the Bay Bridge, US 50/301). Check MDOT SHA's Biking Laws list before riding on major highways. (source)
Stop-as-yield (Idaho stop): Maryland does NOT have a statewide stop-as-yield / 'Idaho stop' law. Bicyclists must obey stop signs and traffic signals and follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. (source)

Cities and counties often add their own rules (for example, where you can ride on sidewalks or boardwalks). Check the local ordinance for the specific town you're visiting.

Resources

Bike-friendly destinations in Maryland

Ride these with the rules above in mind:

In an emergency in the U.S., call 911. Read our general bike safety guide →