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HB 466

Civil Actions - Motor Vehicle Accidents Involving Vulnerable Individuals - Comparative Negligence

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball and 11 co-sponsors

HB 466 restricts comparative negligence defenses in Maryland motor vehicle accident cases involving pedestrians, cyclists, and disabled persons, potentially increasing defendant liability and victim compensation.

Referred to interim study by Judiciary
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Bill Summary · HB 466

Legislative bill overview

HB 466 modifies Maryland's comparative negligence law specifically for civil cases involving motor vehicle accidents with vulnerable individuals (pedestrians, cyclists, disabled persons). The bill adjusts how fault and damages are calculated when these protected groups are involved, potentially limiting defendants' ability to claim comparative negligence defenses based on the victim's conduct.

Why is this important

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury and death among vulnerable road users. This bill affects both insurance settlements and court judgments, potentially increasing compensation for injured pedestrians and cyclists while creating new liability exposure for drivers. The changes could impact insurance rates, driver behavior incentives, and access to justice for vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Fairness concerns: Defendants' advocates argue that limiting comparative negligence defenses may impose liability regardless of victim conduct (e.g., jaywalking), while supporters contend vulnerable users deserve extra protection given inherent power imbalances with vehicles
  • Insurance cost impacts: Insurance industry concerns about increased claims costs and potential premium increases versus public health advocates' view that higher costs incentivize safer driving
  • Definitional clarity: The precise definition of "vulnerable individuals" and what vehicle accidents are covered will affect scope; overly broad definitions could create unintended consequences while narrow ones may exclude those needing protection

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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