What type of light is required on the rear of every vehicle in Maryland?

A functioning brake light is required on the rear of every vehicle in Maryland because it serves a critical safety function. Brake lights are designed to signal to drivers behind a vehicle that it is slowing down or coming to a stop. This warning is essential to prevent rear-end collisions, which can occur if following drivers are not alerted in time to the actions of the vehicle in front of them.

Maryland law emphasizes the importance of operational brake lights as part of the vehicle's lighting equipment, ensuring not only compliance with state regulations but also the safety of all road users. Properly functioning brake lights help maintain safe driving conditions and enable better communication between drivers on the road.