When is it legal to use a handheld smartphone while driving in Maryland?

In Maryland, it is never legal to use a handheld smartphone while driving. This law is in place to minimize distractions, enhance road safety, and reduce the chance of accidents caused by drivers who are not fully attentive to the road. Engaging with a smartphone while driving, regardless of the situation, increases the risk of crashes, as it diverts attention from the driving task.

Other options do touch upon scenarios where a driver might think it is acceptable to use a phone, such as using GPS, being stopped in a parking lot, or waiting at a red light. However, even when stopped, operating a handheld device is prohibited because it is considered a distraction that can lead to careless driving behaviors. Therefore, the law emphasizes the need for drivers to remain focused on their surroundings at all times, ensuring greater safety for everyone on the road.