Maryland Traffic Laws

Brushing up on Maryland's rules of the road is an easy way to help keep yourself and other motorists safe. It may also help you avoid a ticket from a police officer.

In this article, you can learn more about Maryland traffic offenses, driving rules, and motor vehicle laws.

Use the following driving manuals and vehicle codes:

• Maryland Driver Manuals
• Maryland Transportation Code

The driving manuals and vehicle codes in the bullets above cover many topics. The links at the end of this article also go in-depth about state-specific traffic laws and safety regulations.

Specifically, the linked materials will help you learn about:

• Basic driving laws, like who has the right-of-way, left turns, and lane changes
• Speed limits and speed restrictions for varying roads, highways, and residential areas
• Crossing paths with an authorized emergency vehicle or school bus
• Passing zones and passing vehicles on the right side
• Meeting and overtaking approaching vehicles from the opposite direction
• Seat belt and child restraint regulations and restrictions on front-seat passengers
• Traffic-control signals and devices like stop lights, yield signs, stop signs, and other traffic signs
• Restrictions on the use of cell phones, text messaging devices, and other wireless communication devices while driving
• Impaired driving and driving under the influence (DUI/DWI)
• Required vehicle equipment such as headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and license plates
• Crosswalk signals and rules for yielding to pedestrians

Resources for Maryland Drivers

The Mayland Department of Transportation (MDOT) website provides resources for the safe operation of vehicles and shared use of roadways. Find information on:

• Safety resources for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians
• Road and highway safety information
• Commuter transportation options and services

Motorists can also visit the MDOT Coordinated Highway's Action Response Team subsection for real-time updates on travel conditions including:

• Traffic reports and back-ups
• Current road conditions due to severe weather
• Construction area updates
• Weather-related or maintenance road closures

Table of Maryland Traffic Laws

Find common laws and links to their statutes in the table below.

Traffic Violation? Get Help Now

If you have been cited for a traffic violation such as running a stop sign or reckless driving in Maryland, you should contact a traffic ticket attorney in your area for legal advice.

An experienced attorney can review your citation to ensure the law enforcement officer applied the law correctly. This may save you an expensive fine, a ding on your driving record, and points off your license.