LAUREL, Anne Arundel County, Md., Oct. 20, 2026 — A pedestrian died early Sunday morning, October 18, after being struck on Route 295 near Route 198, according to reports.
The pedestrian was reportedly struck on the southbound side of Route 295, which closed all southbound lanes. The person killed had apparently stopped to help at an earlier crash scene when they were hit, according to the account.
A state police medevac helicopter was called to the scene, with a landing zone set up on the parkway.
Both northbound and southbound lanes of Route 295 were shut down for a time, and drivers were told to use I-95 as a detour. The crash was reported at 4:44 a.m.
The circumstances of both crashes remain under review. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
More Crash News from Anne Arundel County
This pedestrian crash happened at Route 295 and Route 198 in Laurel, MD. For other recent crashes near Laurel, MD, visit our Anne Arundel County accident news page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer head trauma, broken bones, and spinal injuries. Even at lower speeds, the lack of any protective barrier means injuries tend to be more severe than in vehicle-to-vehicle crashes.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Distracted or impaired driving, poor visibility, speeding, and drivers failing to see someone stopped on a roadway or shoulder are frequent factors, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
How does vehicle speed affect pedestrian survival?
Survival odds drop sharply as speed increases. A pedestrian struck at lower speeds has a much better chance of survival than one hit by a vehicle traveling at highway speeds.
Where do most pedestrian accidents happen?
Many occur on roadways, shoulders, or ramps where pedestrians are not expected, including situations where someone has stopped to help at another crash or breakdown.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Laurel, Maryland
If you witness or are involved in a pedestrian crash, call 911 immediately and, if it's safe, move away from active traffic lanes. Do not assume someone else has already reported it. If you've stopped to help at another accident scene, try to position yourself and others well clear of moving lanes, and use hazard lights or flares if available to warn oncoming drivers. Anyone involved, even if they feel uninjured, should still seek a medical evaluation, since shock can mask pain from internal injuries. Keep a record of what you observed, including the time and location, in case it's needed later for an official report.
