Bill > HB676

This bill amends Maryland's boating accident laws to clarify and strengthen requirements for vessel operators involved in collisions or accidents that result in bodily injury or death. The bill requires vessel operators to immediately stop their vessel as close as possible to the scene of an accident and mandates that they render all practical assistance to save persons from danger, without putting themselves at serious risk. Operators must also provide their name, address, and vessel identification to injured persons or property owners. The bill 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/or a $3,000 fine; for accidents causing death, penalties increase to up to 5 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. More serious penalties apply if the operator knew or should have known the accident might result in serious bodily injury or death, with potential imprisonment up to 5-10 years and fines up to $5,000-$10,000. Additionally, the bill requires operators to file detailed accident reports with the Department of Natural Resources within specified timeframes, depending on the accident's severity, and ensures that such reports cannot be used as evidence in judicial proceedings. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0676?ys=2025RS