Barbara A. Preston for The Montgomery News | September 10, 2026
Amid a significant increase in fatal motor vehicle crashes in recent months, Somerset County officials are urging motorists to make safe driving a priority.
In calendar year 2025, there were 14 motor vehicle crashes resulting in the deaths of 14 drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. As of August 31, 2026, Somerset County has already exceeded the total number of fatal crashes recorded during the previous year, with 16 motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 16 deaths involving drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists, according to a press release issued by the Prosecutor’s Office.
Eight of the fatal crashes in 2026 have resulted in criminal charges against drivers due to risky behavior and poor choices behind the wheel. These crashes were preventable. — Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald and Chief of County Detectives Meredith McKay.
"It is our goal to reverse this trend and reduce serious and fatal crashes," Prosecutor McDonald said. He is urging all road users, including drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, to take responsibility for their actions and make safety their highest priority when traveling on Somerset County roadways.
It is the responsibility of all road users to obey all traffic laws and observe all traffic control devices. Safe driving is a choice that can save a life.
The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office is working to raise awareness, encourage responsible driving, and is asking drivers to follow these important tips to help keep everyone on the road safe:
Drivers: Be vigilant for pedestrians and yield the right of way at crosswalks as required by law.
Pedestrians: Cross only when and where permitted and never assume a driver can see you. It is easier for you to see an approaching vehicle than it is for the driver to see you, especially after dark.
Obey posted speed limits. Driving at higher speeds increases stopping distance and provides less time to react to hazards or unexpected situations.
Stop for all red and amber traffic signals and obey all stop signs. Other road users expect you to follow traffic control devices and make decisions based on the expectation that you will do so.
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Use a rideshare or designate a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol or use recreational drugs. These substances impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle, affect your judgement, and slow your reaction time.
Put the phone down. Keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel and your mind on the task of driving. Cell phone users are 5.36 times more likely to be involved in a crash. Impairment from talking on a cell phone can be comparable to driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%. Sending or reading a text message can take your eyes off the road for four to six seconds.
For more tips on safe driving, please visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.
