Holding a driver's license entails the responsibility of being familiar with and adhering to the laws of the road, including regulations concerning littering from vehicles. The penalties for violating these laws are structured to deter such actions.
Penalties for Littering
The penalties for littering are severe:
- First Offense: Committing a littering offense (§ 8-6-406 or § 8-6-407) results in being charged with an unclassified misdemeanor, accompanied by a fine ranging from $100 to $1,000, and possibly up to 8 hours of community service.
- Second or Subsequent Offense: For repeat violations within three years, the penalties escalate to fines between $200 and $2,000, a potential 24 hours of community service, and a six-month driver's license suspension.
Commercial Refuse Hauling
Commercial vehicles transporting litter, trash, or garbage must be covered to prevent spillage. Violations related to commercial activities result in a Class A misdemeanor, with additional obligations possibly including the removal of litter.
Prohibited Actions
It is illegal to dispose of certain items like junk vehicles, tires, or inoperative appliances on public or unowned private property, except at designated disposal sites or facilities.
If littering occurs from a motor vehicle, the driver is presumed responsible, establishing prima facie evidence of their guilt.
Smoking
It is prohibited for anyone to knowingly smoke tobacco in a motor vehicle when a child under the age of fourteen (14) years is present as a passenger.
