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§ 21-1124.1. Use of text messaging device while driving prohibited

West's Annotated Code of MarylandTransportationEffective: October 1, 2014

West's Annotated Code of Maryland
Transportation
Title 21. Vehicle Laws--Rules of the Road (Refs & Annos)
Subtitle 11. Miscellaneous Rules (Refs & Annos)
Effective: October 1, 2014
MD Code, Transportation, § 21-1124.1
§ 21-1124.1. Use of text messaging device while driving prohibited
Definitions
(a)(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “9-1-1 system” has the meaning stated in § 1-301 of the Public Safety Article.
(3) “Text messaging device” means a handheld device used to send a text message or an electronic message via a short message service, wireless telephone service, or electronic communication network.
Use of text messaging device while driving prohibited
(b) Subject to subsection (c) of this section, an individual may not use a text messaging device to write, send, or read a text message or an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle in the travel portion of the roadway.
Global positioning systems or contact of 9-1-1 systems
(c) This section does not apply to the use of:
(1) A global positioning system; or
(2) A text messaging device to contact a 9-1-1 system.
Penalties for violation of section
(d)(1) If the Administration receives satisfactory evidence that an individual who is under the age of 18 years has violated this section, the Administration:
(i) May suspend the individual's driver's license for not more than 90 days; and
(ii) May issue a restricted license for the period of suspension that is limited to driving a motor vehicle:
1. In the course of the individual's employment;
2. For the purpose of driving to or from a place of employment; or
3. For the purpose of driving to or from school.
(2) An individual may request a hearing as provided for a suspension or revocation under Title 12, Subtitle 2 of this article.

Credits

Added by Acts 2009, c. 194, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2009; Acts 2009, c. 195, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2009. Amended by Acts 2011, c. 471, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2011; Acts 2011, c. 472, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2011; Acts 2012, c. 251, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2012; Acts 2012, c. 252, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2012; Acts 2014, c. 248, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2014; Acts 2014, c. 260, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2014.
MD Code, Transportation, § 21-1124.1, MD TRANS § 21-1124.1
Current through legislation effective through April 9, 2023, from the 2024 Regular Session of the General Assembly. Some statute sections may be more current, see credits for details.
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