New Laws Effective October 1st, 2016

Believe it or not, a few state legislatures managed to be productive this past year, and some new laws are taking effect October 1. Now, some of us might prefer an ineffective state legislature, but regardless, if you live in one of these productive states, you need to be aware of the new laws to avoid getting a ticket.

Here’s a rundown of the new rules by state:

Connecticut

Work Zone – Work zone restrictions and fines have increased with the goal of making work zones safer for workers.

Florida

Loads – A new law requires an 18-inch square, red flag on all loads that extend four feet or more beyond a vehicle.

Maryland

Noah’s Law – This law, named after a police officer killed by a drunk driver, widely expands ignition interlock rules and increases the driver’s license suspension period. Ignition interlock devices are required for conviction of driving under the influence (DUI), driving while impaired with a passenger under the age of 16 (DWI), driving while intoxicated and refusing to take a breathalyzer test, and committing a life-threatening or fatal accident while driving under the influence.

Speed Limits – Starting October 1, the highest speed limit that can be posted will be 70 mph, up from 65 mph. Note that speed limits are not effectively changed until the sign stating the speed limit has been changed.

Insurance Cards – A $60 fine will now be levied against anyone pulled without a valid insurance card in the automobile that shows proof of insurance.

Historic Vehicle Registrations – Vehicles may no longer be registered as a historic vehicle if they are used for employment, “commercial purposes,” or commuting to and from a job or school.

Trading in Leased Vehicles – Anyone trading in a leased vehicle to buy or lease another may receive a trade-in allowance toward the “total purchase price” of the new vehicle.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses – CDL drivers may continue driving under a CDL license for regular driving purposes if their CDL license has been revoked because they did not submit an updated physical exam. Essentially, in this case, the CDL is simply downgraded to a regular license until the driver can get to the DMV and receive a regular driver’s license.

North Carolina

Motorcycles – In the same bill that creates more abortion restrictions, NC legislators increased fines and penalties for motorcycle drivers who do not drive safely and cause an accident.