Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in Maryland

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in Maryland for operating a vehicle?


The legal blood alcohol limit in Maryland for operating a vehicle is 0.08%.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in Maryland?


In Maryland, when approaching a stopped school bus from either direction with its red lights flashing, a driver must stop at least 20 feet away from the bus and remain stopped until the lights are no longer flashing or the bus moves. Drivers should never pass a school bus while it is stopped to pick up or drop off children, no matter which direction they are travelling in.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in Maryland?


In Maryland, drivers must yield the right of way in the following situations:

– When approaching a stop sign or yield sign
– When entering a roadway from a driveway or alley
– When merging onto a highway
– When making a left turn at an intersection
– When turning left in front of oncoming traffic
– When pedestrians are in a crosswalk
– When approaching an emergency vehicle with flashing lights and sounding a siren or horn

4. What is Maryland’s distracted driving law?


In Maryland, it is illegal to use any handheld device while driving, including to text or talk, unless it is hands-free. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using cellphones and other handheld devices while driving, even for hands-free activities. All drivers are prohibited from texting while driving. Additionally, drivers are prohibited from using cellphones at all in school or construction zones. Violation of these laws carries the penalty of a fine up to $175.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in Maryland?


No, it is not legal to use a cell phone while driving in Maryland. Maryland has a hands-free law that prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while driving.

6. When should a driver use high beams in Maryland?


In Maryland, drivers should only use their high beams when they’re the only vehicle on the road and visibility is at least 500 feet. Drivers should also make sure to switch back to their low beams when there is oncoming traffic.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in Maryland?


The speed limit on highways in Maryland is generally 65 miles per hour (mph) unless otherwise posted.

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in Maryland?


In Maryland, commercial drivers are allowed to drive 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They must then take a 10-hour break.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in Maryland?


When approaching a railroad crossing in Maryland, drivers should reduce their speed, be prepared to stop, and look both ways for approaching trains. Drivers should never attempt to drive around lowered gates or cross tracks when warning signals are activated. If a train is approaching, drivers should never try to beat it across the crossing.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Maryland?


If drivers encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Maryland, they should remain calm and not engage in any aggressive behavior. Drivers should try to avoid the situation, if possible, by changing lanes or slowing down to create more distance between them. If the situation escalates and the aggressive driver does not back down, drivers should dial 9-1-1 and let the police handle the situation.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in Maryland?


Drivers should never attempt to drive through a flooded roadway. It is dangerous and can cause serious damage to the vehicle. If a driver encounters a flooded roadway, they should turn around and find another route. It is also important to remember that just six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control or float, so it is best to turn around if there is any doubt about the depth of the water.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in Maryland?


Drivers in Maryland should prepare their vehicles for winter driving by making sure that the tires are properly inflated, that the windshield wipers and wiper fluid are in good condition, that they have an emergency kit with extra warm clothing, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and a mobile phone charger, that the antifreeze and other fluids are filled to their proper levels, and that the battery is fully charged. They should also make sure to check the brakes and other mechanical systems to ensure they are working properly. Additionally, drivers in Maryland should be familiar with winter driving laws and regulations and how to respond to inclement weather conditions.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in Maryland?


The legal age for operating a vehicle in Maryland is 16 years old.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in Maryland?


The rules for stopping at a stop sign in Maryland are as follows:

1. When approaching a stop sign, you must come to a complete stop before entering the intersection.

2. You must remain stopped until there is no traffic or pedestrians in the crosswalk and it is safe to proceed.

3. You must yield to any vehicle or pedestrian that has already entered the intersection before you.

4. You must always obey the instructions of a police officer or traffic control device at an intersection.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in Maryland?


At an uncontrolled intersection in Maryland, the vehicle that arrived first has the right of way. If both vehicles arrived at the same time, the vehicle to the right should go first.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in Maryland?


Emergency lanes on highways in Maryland are intended for use only in the event of a vehicle breakdown, medical emergency, or other unforeseen circumstances. Drivers must use their hazard lights when using the emergency lane and should move out of the lane as soon as possible. In addition, drivers are encouraged to stay in their vehicles until a tow truck or other assistance arrives. Emergency lanes cannot be used for passing slower moving vehicles or for any non-emergency purpose.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in Maryland?


Drivers should slow down when approaching curves in the road and adjust their speed to match the curvature of the road. They should also be aware of any posted speed limits and stay within those limits. Take extra caution when driving through curves at night, in inclement weather, or when visibility is impaired. Finally, always leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in Maryland?


In Maryland, the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit is 15 years and 9 months.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in Maryland?


In Maryland, drivers must yield to pedestrians who are crossing at a marked crosswalk or at any corner without a marked crosswalk. Drivers must stop and stay stopped until the pedestrian has reached the other side of the road or sidewalk.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in Maryland?


Drivers should use their headlights during daylight hours in Maryland when visibility is reduced due to fog, rain, snow, or other similar conditions.