Citizen Alert – New Traffic Laws from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration

Effective today, Tuesday, October 1, 2013 several new Maryland  Traffic Laws take Effect. 

According to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration:

Maryland's Cell Phone Use Ban (TR 21–1124.2) 
 Maryland’s cell phone law now prohibits a driver from using a cell phone while a motor vehicle is in motion. This is a primary offense. Law enforcement officers can stop a driver solely for using a cell phone – no other offense is needed. Drivers will receive a fine (not counting court costs) of up to:

$ 75 – first offense
                                        $125 – second offense
                                        $175 – third & subsequent offense

Maryland's Seat Belt Law
 Maryland has a primary seat belt law for front seat occupants AND a secondary seat belt law for back seat occupants.

Tickets can be issued to drivers and front seat passengers even if no other violation is observed.

Each person that is not buckled up (driver and passenger) may receive a ticket of up to $50 for not wearing a seatbelt.

In the case where any passenger under the age of 16 years of age is not buckled up, the driver will receive a ticket for each offense. For instance, if a driver is stopped and not wearing a seat belt, and a passenger under the age of 16 is also not restrained, the driver will receive a $50 adult seat belt ticket for himself and a $50 ticket for the passenger.

For more information visit the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration's website at www.mva.maryland.gov/