If you drive like the Grinch, you’ll earn a place on the big guy’s list this holiday season. Spoiler alert: not the “nice” one.
If you want to avoid getting coal instead of presents this year, pay attention to our safe driving list – and maybe check it twice.
1. Driving While Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence is the quickest way to get on Santa’s bad side. And that’s not just limited to alcohol, it can also be recreational drugs, or even prescription medications. The fines, license suspensions, and potential jail time (or worse) should be more than enough to convince you to call a cab or use a ride-sharing service.
2. Texting While Driving
Sending that cute holiday meme or confirming your Secret Santa plans with friends might be on your to-do list, but not while you are dashing through the snow. Texting while driving in Maryland is illegal and can carry a $75 fine for a first offense.
3. Running a Red Light
If you run a red light in Maryland, you may find a $150 fine and possibly a point against your driving record in your stocking. Allow other vehicles to safely drive through an intersection when it’s their turn. Santa doesn’t appreciate reckless driving, and neither do the police.
4. Speeding Through the Snow
Speeding on Maryland roads is never the answer. Whether you’re rushing to the store for one last gift or just trying to keep up with the traffic, speeding can lead to hefty fines and points on your license.
5. Driving Without Your Seatbelt
Maryland law requires everyone to wear a seatbelt—yes, even in the backseat. Skipping this simple step can earn you a $50 fine. Besides, it’s an easy way to stay on the Nice List, even the reindeer wear their safety gear.
6. Tailgating Others
When you are bumper-to-bumper during holiday traffic jams, don’t forget that tailgating in Maryland can result in a $90 fine and a point on your driving record. This holiday season embrace the giving spirit and give drivers some space on the road.
7. Ignoring the Right of Way
Whether it’s cutting off a driver while making a left turn or changing lanes too close to another vehicle, failure to yield could earn you a ticket. Remember, Santa is watching!
8. Parking incorrectly
Mall and shopping center parking lots are designed to maximize parking space and allow for safe vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Creating your own spot at the end of a row or in the grass puts your vehicle and others around you at risk. Maryland’s parking laws are straightforward—double parking, blocking fire hydrants, and parking on sidewalks are not allowed. You could end up with a $100 fine, or your car could get towed. Don’t make parking an afterthought if you want to stay off the Naughty List.
9. Littering
Tossing candy cane wrappers, gift wrap, or eggnog cups out of your car window might seem harmless, but it’s illegal to litter on Maryland roads. The fine for littering can be as much as $500, depending on the offense.
10. Driving without Insurance
In Maryland, driving without car insurance is not only illegal, it’s also costly. Penalty fees include $200 for the first 30 days and $7 for each day after and can add up to $3,500 yearly. Plus, a fine of $1,000 if you are caught and up to 5 points on your license. So, think twice before deciding to drive uninsured! If you have been turned down or cancelled by other carriers, Maryland Auto can help you get insured and ride into the new year with coverage. Visit MyMarylandAuto.com to start a quote or find an agent near you.
There you have it—the top 10 ways to guarantee you’ll get coal instead of presents this holiday season. Driving laws are designed to keep everyone safe—so be kind on the road, and maybe you’ll find yourself on the Nice List instead.
Happy holidays and safe travels!
