Maryland SB698 mandates removal of snow and ice from exposed vehicle surfaces, with escalating fines for violations.

Maryland SB698 establishes that drivers must remove snow and ice from exposed vehicle surfaces, including hoods, windshields, windows, roofs, and truck cabs. Violators face escalating fines: $25 for a first offense, $50 for a second, $100 for a third, and $200 for subsequent offenses. The law also prohibits operating or towing a vehicle if snow or ice contributes to an accident causing property damage or serious injury, with fines ranging from $200 to $1,000 for non-commercial vehicles and $500 to $1,500 for commercial vehicles. The law takes effect October 1, 2026.

Maryland SB698 mandates removal of snow and ice from exposed vehicle surfaces, with escalating fines for violations.

Maryland SB698 establishes that drivers must remove snow and ice from exposed vehicle surfaces, including hoods, windshields, windows, roofs, and truck cabs. Violators face escalating fines: $25 for a first offense, $50 for a second, $100 for a third, and $200 for subsequent offenses. The law also prohibits operating or towing a vehicle if snow or ice contributes to an accident causing property damage or serious injury, with fines ranging from $200 to $1,000 for non-commercial vehicles and $500 to $1,500 for commercial vehicles. The law takes effect October 1, 2026.