(a) General rule.--Except as set forth in subsection (b), an individual who is an operator or an occupant in a motor vehicle may not be in possession of an open alcoholic beverage container or consume a controlled substance as defined in the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, or an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle while the motor vehicle is located on a highway in this Commonwealth.
(b) Exception.--This section does not prohibit possession or consumption by any of the following:
(1) A passenger in the passenger area of a motor vehicle designed, maintained or used primarily for the lawful transportation of persons for compensation. This paragraph includes buses, taxis and limousines.
(2) An individual in the living quarters of a house coach or house trailer.
(c) Penalty.--An individual who violates this section commits a summary offense.
Cross References. Section 3809 is referred to in section 1542 of this title.
Structure Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes
Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes
Chapter 38 - Driving After Imbibing Alcohol or Utilizing Drugs
Section 3802 - Driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance
Section 3805 - Ignition interlock
Section 3807 - Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition
Section 3808 - Illegally operating a motor vehicle not equipped with ignition interlock
Section 3809 - Restriction on alcoholic beverages
Section 3810 - Authorized use not a defense
Section 3811 - Certain arrests authorized
Section 3812 - Preliminary hearing or arraignment
Section 3814 - Drug and alcohol assessments
Section 3815 - Mandatory sentencing
Section 3816 - Requirements for driving under influence offenders