New laws Toward Zero Deaths initiative

As a critical element in Maryland’s Toward Zero Deaths initiative to eliminate fatalities on state and local roadways, these laws include tougher restrictions and increased sanctions for violators. Drivers will be fined $75 for the first cell phone offence. Fines for seat belt violations start at $50.

Cell phone use is a leading cause of distraction and more than 30,000 people in Maryland are injured as a result of distracted driving-related crashes, according to a press release from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. In addition, data shows that unbuckled back seat occupants are significant contributors to injuries to drivers and other occupants, even when those individuals are wearing a seat belt, the release said.

Teens and young drivers are especially susceptible to distraction and not wearing seat belts. To this end, the Maryland Highway Safety Office is holding a press conference at Annapolis High School tomorrow, Oct. 1, in which legislators and other local leaders will explain the new laws and demonstrate the dangers to youth.

AT&T is providing a distracted driving wheel and pedal simulator for the event and the Anne Arundel County Police Department will conduct a cell phone and seat belt enforcement initiative.