(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.
Pennsylvania Legal Code