So you are heading to Ocean City, MD for Bike Week. There are always questions concerning local laws and how they pertain to motorcyclists. FLBD decided to go straight to the source, Lt. Scott Harner, Traffic Safety Unit Commander, Ocean City Police Department for clarification.
WHAT IS OCEAN CITY’S POLICY ON LED LIGHTS? ARE RED/BLUE LIGHTS PERMITTED? WHAT IS THE FINE?
Lt. Harner: I think the best way to answer questions in which someone requests clarification on a specific law is to provide them with the law so there is nothing lost in translation and/or interpretation of that law. Ocean City, Maryland itself does not have an ordinance addressing motorcycle lighting, however, the Maryland Transportation Article §22-221 (Additional Lighting Equipment) addresses this question. Additionally, §22-203 through §22-224 address additional lighting restrictions and/or requirements not listed in this section.
The law cited by Lt. Harner above can be found HERE and the sections that specifically address our questions are highlighted. We encourage you to read the law and contact the Maryland Transportation Authority if you need further clarification. In FLBD’s opinion, you probably should not light up your red or blue LEDs in Ocean City and particularly not blinking or oscillating red or blue LEDs.
The fine is $60.00.
WHAT IS THE HELMET LAW? WHAT CAN VIOLATORS EXPECT?
Lt. Harner: §21-1306 of the Maryland Transportation Article address this question. I think all would agree that a helmet can reduce the risk of injury during a collision and for that reason violators can expect enforcement for this type of violation.
The law regarding helmets referred to above by Lt. Harner can be found HERE. The bottom line is: Where a helmet!
The fine is $110.00
WHAT IS THE SPEED LIMIT IN OCEAN CITY? WHAT CAN VIOLATORS EXPECT?
Lt. Harner: The speed limit varies but is never higher than 40 miles per hour (from 62nd Street to the Delaware line). Below or south of 62nd Street the speed limits are 35, 30, and 25 miles per hour in certain areas. Although these are the posted speed limits, due to traffic volume in town it is not prudent to travel the speed limit and reduced speeds are necessary for the safety of all. Violators can expect enforcement for speeding infractions.
WHAT IS THE OCEAN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE DURING BIKE WEEK AND WHAT CAN MOTORCYCLISTS DO TO ALLEVIATE WHATEVER THAT IS?
Lt. Harner: One of the biggest challenges the Town of Ocean City faces during many of the busiest weeks and weekends throughout the year is highway safety issues. It is important for motorists to be aware of the large volume of pedestrians crossing our roadways and it is equally as important for pedestrians to abide by pedestrian laws to avoid being struck. Aggressive driving, distracted driving and impaired driving are a concern nationwide and Ocean City, MD is not immune to these dangers. It is imperative that all motorists ensure they allocate ample time to arrive at their location with the understanding that they may experience traffic delays due to the volume of motor vehicle traffic in Ocean City during busy weekends. Also, motorists are reminded to stay focused on the road and avoid distractions and always ensure they have a safe ride home if alcohol is consumed. We encourage those that have consumed alcohol to take advantage of our municipal buses and the many cabs in town.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE BIGGEST CAUSE OF MOTORCYCLE-INVOLVED ACCIDENTS DURING BIKE WEEK AND WHAT CAN MOTORCYCLISTS DO TO ALLEVIATE THAT FACTOR?
Lt. Harner: There are relatively few collisions involving motorcycles during this event, however, the cause or causes of the collisions that do occur are likely attributable to the three issues addressed in the previous answer: aggressive driving, distracted driving and impaired driving. We highly encourage all residents and visitors to Ocean City to visit OC Walk Smart for tips and information on safe driving, pedestrian safety and bike safety.
WHAT WOULD YOU WANT MOTORCYCLISTS TO KNOW ABOUT OCEAN CITY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT?
Lt. Harner: The Ocean City Police Department partners with numerous allied law enforcement agencies during large scale events such as Bike Week. There will be a large law enforcement presence during this event and we ask that all visitors stay vigilant and report unusual or suspicious behavior to law enforcement. If you see something – say something!
Good advice for all to insure a safe, fun bike week! FLBD would like to thank Lt.Harner and the OCMD Police Dept.
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