Maryland has several new driving laws on the books that take
effect on Saturday, October 1. Among them is one that focuses on impaired
driving; another requires proof of insurance.
The Drunk Driving Reduction Act of 2016, also known as Noah’s
Law, mandates the use of an ignition interlock for those convicted of drunk
driving and significantly increases administrative driver’s license suspension
periods. Noah’s Law was named in honor of Montgomery County Police Officer Noah
A. Leotta, who was struck by a drunk driver while pulling over another
suspected drunk driver during a holiday patrol. Tragically, he died a few days
later as a result of his injuries.
Another law going into effect October 1 requires drivers to carry with them their current vehicle insurance identification card issued by their insurance company. It may be on paper or plastic or in electronic format. Starting July 1, 2017, anyone without a current vehicle insurance card can be charged a $50 fine.
