For motorists in the Frederick area, the year 2012 provided a series ups and downs, as we consider transportation issues.

On the positive side, Maryland has improved work zone safety areas. Crashes, fatalities, and injuries are at a ten year low according to Mid-Maryland Triple A spokesperson Ragina Avarella. "The speed zone camera program has driven down fatalities 67%, accidents are down 16.8% and the number of personal injuries has fallen 11.8%." in addition the cameras have reduces speeding violations in crosscutting areas.

Major road projects have been mostly restricted to major metropolitan areas. Local drivers have many concerns about the lack of planning for local congestion issues such as Route 15 or Interstate 270.According to Avarella, "The issue of road funding is inherent in the way the Legislature handles it funding. Until there is a change in how the state legislators change the funding of highway projects, little can be done to improve local roads." She did note that the Triple A would be attempting to lobby for that change next year.

Another major change was in the laws pertaining to child safety seats. "Maryland passed legislation removing the 65 pound exemption for a booster seat for children. The new law exempt children who are taller than 4'9" despite weight."

A disappointing statistic from the year 2012 is the 7.1% increase in fatalities as compared to a similar period in 2011. 25,580 people had died in traffic accidents from January to September. It is hoped that the rate will show a drop during the last quarter of 2012 to drop the increase in fatalities.

In the future year Mid-Atlantic Triple A will be lobbying the state legislature for improvements in highway funding for our area. And to review the current laws as they relate to the use of school speed cameras.The Triple A represents ove 4 million drivers in the three state Mid Atlantic Region.