How does Maryland state law deals with use of cell phones while driving?
Full Question:
Answer:
In Maryland, all the learner's permit and intermediate license holders are prohibited from using cell phones while driving. Effective from 10/01/2009, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. If convicted of a misdemeanor of the new text messaging law, you will receive a fine of up to $500. The nature of enforcement is secondary with respect to learner's permit and intermediate license holders.
Generally, using cell phones while driving distracts drivers to a great extent. Texting is even more distracting because texting causes a driver to take his/her eyes off the road in contrast to talking on the mobile while driving where the driver though distracted need not take his eyes off the road (except when dialling). Text messaging is banned for all drivers in 14 states and the District of Columbia.
The consistency of increased crash risk between hands-free and hand held cell phone use is at odds with legislation that prohibits hand held cell phone use but allows hands-free. In the United States, hands free use of a cell phone while driving is not prohibited in any state. Since dialing buttons on a cell phone is more distracting than talking on a cell phone, hands-free devices that offer voice-dialing may reduce the risk of accidents to a limited extent.
