Several new traffic laws went into effect today (Oct. 1), according to announcements from several agencies, including a community advisory from the Takoma Park Police Department.
The most notable changes include:
- The Move Over Law has been changed to require drivers to either make lane change or slow down when coming upon ANY stopped, standing, or parked vehicle displaying warning signals such as hazard warning lights, road flares, traffic cones, caution signs, or non-vehicular warning signs. Violators are subject to $100 fine and one point.
- Children under the age of 2 must now be placed in rear-facing seats until they meet or exceed the seats height and weight guidelines. Violators may received a written warning on first offense but are subject to being fined afterward.
- Any driver going more than 10 miles an hour below the maximum posted speed, unless conditions warrant it, must drive in the right-hand lane (if available), or as close to shoulder/curb as possible. However, violators may not be cited.
Maryland Department of Transportation graphic