MD HB676

Vessel operators involved in collisions, accidents, or casualties causing bodily injury or death must immediately stop as close as possible to the scene, render assistance, and provide their name, address, and vessel identification

Failing to stop after an accident causing bodily injury is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and/or $3,000 fine; failing to stop after a fatal accident carries up to 5 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine

Elevated felony penalties apply when the operator knew or should have known the accident might result in serious bodily injury (up to 5 years/$5,000) or death (up to 10 years/$10,000)

"Serious bodily injury" is defined as injury creating substantial risk of death, serious permanent disfigurement, or serious permanent loss or impairment of bodily function

Failure to render assistance or provide information is a separate misdemeanor punishable by up to 2 months imprisonment and/or $500 fine; effective date is October 1, 2025