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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 24, 2025 |
Portland, MAINE - Roadway crashes remain a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 1.19 million lives each year — the equivalent of more than 20 commercial plane crashes every single day. According to the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), in the U.S. alone, more than 42,500 people died in roadway crashes in 2022. As traffic volumes rise and more drivers take to the roads during the warmer months, Maine Turnpike Authority is calling on everyone to make safe choices that protect lives.
To address the ongoing challenges of roadway safety, Maine Turnpike Authority is participating in IBTTA’s Global Road Safety Week, taking place June 23–27, 2025. This international campaign underscores the tolling industry’s deep commitment to protecting drivers, workers, and communities through safer infrastructure, smarter operations, and everyday responsibility.
“Our crews — whether on the road or behind the scenes — show up every day to keep travelers safe. We ask drivers to do the same: slow down, stay focused, and drive sober,” said Andre Briere, Maine Turnpike Authority Executive Director. “As summer traffic increases, Maine Turnpike Authority urges everyone to take safety seriously — and to be the reason someone gets home safe.”
Through the “Be the Highway Hero” campaign, Maine Turnpike Authority is spotlighting the real people behind road safety — from roadway workers and first responders to conscientious drivers and traffic management center staff — while raising public awareness about how small actions can prevent tragedies.
To promote the event, MTA is sharing information on social media, starting a radio campaign with MTA employees warning about the dangers of aggressive and distracted driving, and on Friday, June 27th, MTA will be holding a public information event in West Gardiner. This event will encourage drivers to pledge how they can be a “Highway Hero” and keep Maine’s roads safe. The event will be from 11 AM to 1 PM at the West Gardiner Service Plaza at the confluence of Interstates 295 and 95.
“Every safe trip on the Maine Turnpike depends on someone choosing to slow down, stay alert, or move over,” said Erin Courtney, Director of Communications and Government/Public Relations. “Those everyday choices are what make someone a highway hero.”