No, Maine does not explicitly ban eating while driving, but the state’s distracted driving laws prohibit any activity that diverts attention from the road. Under 29-A M.R.S. § 2116, drivers must maintain full control of their vehicle, and local ordinances in cities like Portland and Bangor may impose additional restrictions. Courts interpret “distraction” broadly, meaning eating could lead to citations if it impairs driving.
Key Regulations for Eating While Driving in Maine
- Primary Distraction Statute: 29-A M.R.S. § 2116 prohibits operating a vehicle while engaged in any activity that interferes with safe driving, including eating if it causes swerving or delayed reactions.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities such as Portland enforce stricter distracted driving rules, with fines up to $500 for violations observed by law enforcement.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is drafting updated guidelines for 2026, targeting handheld device use but expanding scrutiny to food-related distractions in commercial zones.
Violations are typically classified as civil infractions, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses or accidents caused by distraction. Law enforcement prioritizes cases where eating leads to traffic violations or near-collisions. Drivers should exercise caution, as even minor infractions may trigger higher insurance premiums.