SALISBURY, Md.- Do you own a remote car starter? If you live in Maryland, you may want to think twice before using one.
According to state law, you cannot start your car and leave it running while unattended.
Bonnie Titus of Berlin said she is pretty up-to-date with today's technology. That is why she spent the day Wednesday getting a remote car starter installed in her car.
"Nobody likes to get inside of a car when it's cold or when it's hot," Titus said.
Like many drivers, Titus was surprised to hear about the state's law that puts serious restrictions on how an owner can operate the device.
The law states that an owner cannot start a vehicle using a remote starter if the driver plans on leaving it unattended while the engine is running.
The law applies to remote starter cars in parking lots, streets and even private driveways.
"I think it's a crazy law," Titus said. "I think it's need to be amended."
Some state lawmakers like Del. Barbara Frush are looking at ways to amend the law, so that those who own a remote-keyless ignition system do not have to worry about getting into trouble.
Frush, a Democrat from Prince George's County, said her proposed change makes sense because cars with automatic starts cannot be placed into gear without a key.
Kerry Thomas, who sells and installs car starters in Salisbury, said he agrees that the law needs some changing.
"Absolutely on the right path of getting that fixed," Thomas said. "It's just one of those crazy laws that's out there that should have been fixed a long time ago."
Michelle Hastings has a remote starter and believed the last thing she needs to be worried about is getting ticketed for starting her car.
"It's not fair that they issue a ticket for a car that is not occupied "
Titus said while she waits on what changes could be coming to the law, she will be more cautious in how she uses her new remote starter.
"I definitely going to be more careful to know that I could get a ticket," she said.
According to Maryland State Police, the fine for leaving your car unattended is $70 and one point on your license.
The "car starter" bill is currently pending before the Environmental Matters Committee in Annapolis.
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