Bill > SB123

This bill modifies Maryland's boating accident laws to clarify and strengthen requirements for vessel operators involved in collisions or accidents that result in injury or death. The bill mandates that vessel operators immediately stop their vessel as close as possible to the scene of an accident and take specific actions, including rendering necessary assistance to affected persons and providing their personal and vessel identification information. The legislation establishes different criminal penalties based on the severity of the incident: for accidents causing bodily injury, operators could face up to 1 year in prison and a $3,000 fine; for accidents resulting in death, penalties increase to up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. In cases where the operator knew or should have known the accident might cause serious bodily injury or death, the penalties escalate to felony charges with potential imprisonment of up to 5-10 years and fines up to $5,000-$10,000. The bill also requires operators to report accidents involving death, disappearance, injury, or significant property damage to the Department within specified timeframes. Importantly, the law protects individuals who render good faith assistance during a boating emergency from civil liability. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing vessel operators and maritime authorities time to understand and prepare for the new requirements.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0123?ys=2025RS