Sgt Jerry Eaton

Targeting Trouble Spots: How Crash Data Shapes Safer Roads

June 17, 2025

Changing driver behavior is a large component of highway safety. This is done by finding violators, stopping them, and educating them on driving safely. The most effective way to combat bad driving is to make sure we are targeting the area where crashes are occurring. It is a pretty simple concept. More law enforcement in the area means motorists drive more safely, which means fewer crashes. So, how do we decide when and where to focus our efforts?
Each month, members of our Crime Analyst unit compile data to help us determine when and where crashes happen in Harford County. As you might expect, the most crashes happen where the most vehicle traffic is heaviest. Any area that has a dense population and lots of shopping centers are hot spots for vehicle crashes. This is typically on route 24, route 924, and in the Edgewood area.
As far as when the crashes occur, it turns out that, currently, Monday and Tuesday are the busiest days for vehicle crashes. There is no way to determine why these two days are the busiest, but I have my thoughts. Monday morning, more cars are on the roads heading to school and work. More cars mean more opportunities to crash.
No matter where and when you are driving, be sure to slow down, pay attention and never text while driving. Let’s all work together so the next time the crash data is released, it shows a big fat zero.
Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org

Share the Road: Motorcycle Safety Starts with Everyone

May 27, 2025

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. So, this week, whether you are on four wheels or two, I have a little something for everyone!

For all my motorcycle riders out there, you know how dangerous the roads can be. Make sure you always take a few moments before each ride to keep yourself safe.
First, make sure you are wearing the proper gear. This isn’t just about looking cool. A sturdy helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots can be lifesavers. Think of it as your superhero suit—minus the cape. Next, be sure to stay visible. Bright or reflective clothing and proper lighting make you stand out. Remember, the whole purpose of owning that cool bike is to be seen. Finally, when you are ready to head out, always drive defensively. Assume other drivers might not see you. Keep a safe distance and be ready to react. It’s like playing chess on two wheels. Always think a few moves ahead.

If you are in a four-wheeled vehicle, be aware of the motorcycles around you. Be sure to check your blind spots. Motorcycles can be hard to see. Before changing lanes or turning, double-check those blind spots. It’s like playing hide and seek. Make sure you find all the players. Be sure to give motorcycles plenty of space. You don’t like it when people tailgate you, so you certainly shouldn’t tailgate anyone else: especially motorcycles. And finally, a tip that should apply to every trip you take-be predictable. Use your signals and don’t make sudden turns or lane changes. Let the other drivers know your next move before you make it.

That’s it for this week. If you are getting your bike prepped for some summer road trips, or you are taking the whole family on a vacation, drive safely and watch out for each other.

Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.

HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org

Buckle Up: The Two-Second Choice That Could Save Your Life

April 22, 2025

This week, I want to talk about something that takes two seconds to do but could save your life: wearing your seatbelt. We all know seat belts are important, but let’s take a closer look at just how crucial they really are.

According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, in 2022, the state maintained a seatbelt usage rate of approximately 91%. This definitely isn’t bad, but that remaining 9% means tens of thousands of people are still taking unnecessary risks every day.

In 2021, 118 people who were not wearing seatbelts died in crashes on Maryland roads. More than 300 additional unbelted occupants were seriously injured.
Most of these injuries and fatalities were preventable. That’s why Maryland law requires all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts. If you’re driving with passengers under 16 who aren’t buckled up, you’re responsible and could face fines.

So why do seatbelts matter? For starters, in a serious crash, being unbuckled dramatically increases the chance of being thrown from the vehicle. According to NHTSA, 75% of people ejected from vehicles during crashes die from their injuries.

Lots of people think that, since their vehicle is equipped with airbags, they don’t need to wear a seatbelt. Airbags are designed to work with seatbelts, not replace them. Without a seatbelt, the airbag alone could cause serious injury or may not help at all.

Finally, low speed doesn’t mean low risk. Crashes at speeds as low as 30 mph can be fatal. That’s about the speed you’re driving in a residential neighborhood.
I know everyone is anxious to get out and go places now that the weather is warming up, but take the extra second to buckle up.
Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.

HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org

Parking Violations

April 8, 2025

One of the most frequent calls we get in the Traffic Office deals with parking complaints. Illegal parking can cause serious issues, from blocking emergency vehicles, to creating hazards for pedestrians and other drivers.

Did you know that the Harford County Code has an entire section dedicated to parking regulations? Here are a few parking violations outlined in County Code section 244-17.1

  • Parking within 30 feet of an intersection
  • Blocking public or private driveways
  • Parking on sidewalks or crosswalks
  • Parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
  • Parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection
  • Parking within 30 feet of a stop sign, yield sign, or traffic signal

Violating any of these sections could lead to a $25 fine.

So, why is parking illegally a bad idea? Well, for starters when vehicles park illegally, they effectively remove a portion of the usable roadway, reducing the number of lanes available for moving traffic. This leads to bottlenecks and increased travel times for everyone. Not to mention the fact that parking in fire lanes or blocking access to fire hydrants can severely delay emergency responders, potentially having dire consequences in critical situations. Similarly, blocking access for ambulances or other emergency vehicles can endanger lives.

So remember, after completing your drive as safely as you can, be sure to find a safe and legal place to park.

Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.

HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org