On October 1, a new law banning drivers from holding their cell phones while driving takes effect in Maryland, according to the Baltimore Sun. Instead, drivers must use a hands-free headset or speaker system if they want to talk on their phones while driving. The new rule joins Maryland’s ban on texting while driving, which went into effect in 2009. Like the texting law, the hands-free rule is intended to keep Maryland’s roads safer by preventing distracted driving.
Under the new law, drivers may dial the phone or end a call while holding the phone, but they may not hold the phone while talking on it if they are also driving. Drivers can use a hands-free device, such as a headset or an in-car speaker system if they need to talk on the phone while driving.
Drivers who are caught breaking the new law will be fined $40 for the first offense and $100 for each offense after. The new rule is considered a “secondary” rule, meaning that drivers cannot be pulled over for talking on their cell phones. A police officer can, however, ticket you for talking on your phone while driving if you are pulled over for another offense, like speeding.
Distracted driving causes too many Maryland motor vehicle crashes. If you or a loved one suffers injury from another person’s distracted driving, please contact attorney Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” to discuss your legal rights and options after an accident. Call 877-228-4878 today.
Maryland Injury and Disability Blog Home
