In Maryland, key highways such as Interstate 95, Interstate 70, and Route 50 serve as vital conduits for the state's motorists. These roads, however, also witness many car accidents each year, making traffic safety a paramount concern for local authorities. The state's varied geography, which encompasses bustling urban centers like Baltimore as well as serene rural areas, contributes to a wide range of driving environments and challenges. Among the leading causes of these traffic incidents are speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving.
The year 2023 saw Maryland experiencing nearly 80,000 crashes, marking a distressing 12% increase in traffic-related fatalities over the previous year. Specifically, speeding emerged as a significant factor implicated in 8,000 of these events.
Distracted driving, notably, has become a leading concern, with behaviors such as texting, using a phone, or other distractions contributing to a substantial portion of accidents. This issue is particularly acute in urban areas, where the density of vehicles and pedestrians increases the potential for collisions. Maryland's efforts to combat these challenges include rigorous enforcement of traffic laws, public safety campaigns targeting dangerous driving behaviors, and infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing road safety for all users.
The year 2023 saw Maryland experiencing nearly 80,000 crashes, marking a distressing 12% increase in traffic-related fatalities over the previous year. Specifically, speeding emerged as a significant factor implicated in 8,000 of these events.
Distracted driving, notably, has become a leading concern, with behaviors such as texting, using a phone, or other distractions contributing to a substantial portion of accidents. This issue is particularly acute in urban areas, where the density of vehicles and pedestrians increases the potential for collisions. Maryland's efforts to combat these challenges include rigorous enforcement of traffic laws, public safety campaigns targeting dangerous driving behaviors, and infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing road safety for all users.
Maryland's roads serve as vital arteries for commuters, travelers, and commercial transportation. Despite rigorous safety measures and constant improvements, some roads in the state pose significant risks to motorists. Highlighted below are the most dangerous roads in Maryland, notorious for their high accident rates.
After a car accident in Maryland, it's crucial to follow specific steps to ensure your safety, comply with the law, and protect your legal rights. Here's a comprehensive guide on what you should do in such a situation:
Maryland law mandates that you exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved if there is bodily injury, death, or property damage. This includes providing your name, address, and vehicle registration number and showing your driver's license if requested.
If the accident results in injuries, you are required to offer reasonable assistance to the injured parties. This may involve arranging transportation to a hospital if necessary.
You must report any accident resulting in bodily injury, death, or significant property damage to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration within 15 days. However, if a police officer investigates the scene, this report might not be necessary. Additionally, if you're physically unable to report at that moment, exceptions apply.
While Maryland law might not obligate you to inform your insurance about minor fender benders without injuries, most insurance policies require it. Failing to report could breach your policy terms, potentially affecting coverage.
Not reporting an accident that requires notification can lead to severe penalties, including up to two months in prison, a fine of up to $500, and possible suspension or revocation of your driving license and vehicle registration.
Documenting the scene with photographs and noting any admissions of fault by the other party can be crucial. Take comprehensive photos of the damages, the overall scene, and any relevant road signs or markings.
Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney to navigate the complexities of accident laws in Maryland. They can advise you on dealing with insurance companies and ensuring you meet all legal requirements.
For accidents involving only property damage, you're still expected to stop and exchange information without unnecessarily blocking traffic. The same rules for exchanging information and reporting apply.
Seat Belt and Child
RestraintMaryland law requires all passengers in a vehicle to use seat belts. Children under 8 years old or under 4'9" must use an appropriate child safety seat.
Speed LimitsMaryland adheres to both basic speeding laws and absolute speed limits, regulating driving speeds to ensure road safety for varying conditions and areas.
Use of Electronic
DevicesDistracted driving laws in Maryland generally prohibit the use of handheld cellphones for talking or texting while driving, emphasizing the importance of minimizing distractions to prevent accidents.
DUI/DWI LawsDriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited, with a blood alcohol concentration limit set at .08. Maryland enforces severe penalties for DUI/DWI offenses to combat impaired driving.
Right of Way and
Pedestrian SafetyDrivers in Maryland are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks and to give bicyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing. These laws aim to protect vulnerable road users and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Move Over LawMaryland's Move Over law mandates drivers to move over or slow down when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or transportation vehicles with flashing lights to protect roadside workers and emergency responders.
HeadlightsThe use of headlights is mandated from sunset to sunrise and whenever weather conditions limit visibility to less than 1,000 feet, such as during fog, rain, or snow.
Ignition Interlock
ProgramIf a driver is suspected of DUI/DWI, their license may be confiscated and suspended. Maryland offers an Ignition Interlock System Program as an alternative to license suspension under certain conditions.
Insurance LawIn Maryland, the minimum car insurance coverage required is 30/60/15. This means you need at least a per-person bodily injury cover of $30,000, a per-accident bodily injury cover of $60,000, and a property damage cover of $15,000. However, it's recommended to consider higher coverage than the state minimum for better protection.
Vehicle
RegistrationIn Maryland, you must register your vehicle within 60 days of moving to the state. The process involves providing your vehicle's title from your previous state, a completed Application for Certificate of Title (form VR-005), a Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate, and payment for registration/title fees and taxes.
Maryland shares many of its traffic laws with other US states, but not all of them. There is an odd law that’s unique to the state.
Maryland's No Swearing While Driving Rule:
In Rockville,
Maryland, keep your curse words to yourself or whisper them quietly when driving.
The law classifies swearing from a vehicle within hearing range of others as a
misdemeanor. Violators may face fines up to $100 or 90 days in jail.
