§ 21–1209
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Transp. § 21-1209 (2026)
Title 21. Vehicle Laws -- Rules of the Road
Subtitle 12. Operation of Bicycles and Play Vehicles
§ 21–1209LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the driver of a vehicle shall:
(1)
Exercise due care to avoid colliding with any bicycle, EPAMD, or motor scooter being ridden by a person; and
(2)
When overtaking a bicycle, an EPAMD, or a motor scooter, pass safely at a distance of not less than 3 feet, unless, at the time:
(i)
The bicycle, EPAMD, or motor scooter rider fails to operate the vehicle in conformance with § 21–1205(a) of this subtitle (“Riding to right side of roadway”) or § 21–1205.1(b) of this subtitle (“Roadway with bike lane or shoulder paved to smooth surface”);
(ii)
A passing clearance of less than 3 feet is caused solely by the bicycle, EPAMD, or motor scooter rider failing to maintain a steady course; or
(iii)
The highway on which the vehicle is being driven is not wide enough to lawfully pass the bicycle, EPAMD, or motor scooter at a distance of at least 3 feet.
(b)
A person may not throw any object at or in the direction of any person riding a bicycle, an EPAMD, or a motor scooter.
(c)
A person may not open the door of any motor vehicle with intent to strike, injure, or interfere with any person riding a bicycle, an EPAMD, or a motor scooter.
(d)
(1)
Unless otherwise specified in this title, the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right–of–way to a person who is lawfully riding a bicycle, an EPAMD, or a motor scooter in a designated bike lane or shoulder if the driver of the vehicle is about to enter or cross the designated bike lane or shoulder.
(2)
(i)
A person may not commit a violation of paragraph (1) of this subsection that contributes to the serious physical injury or death of a person riding a bicycle, EPAMD, or motor scooter.
(ii)
A person convicted of a violation of subparagraph (i) of this paragraph is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 months or a fine not exceeding $2,000 or both.