Reckless driving and negligent driving are among the most common traffic charges in Maryland. These offenses can carry serious consequences, including fines, points on your license, license suspension, and in some cases even incarceration—particularly for reckless driving.
Because penalties can vary depending on the circumstances, drivers facing these charges may want to consider speaking with an attorney about their legal options.
Reckless Driving
Under Maryland law, a person is guilty of reckless driving if they drive a motor vehicle (1) in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property; (2) in a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property; or (3) at a speed at least 30 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.
Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol can also be considered reckless driving. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor and can result in imprisonment for up to 60 days, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. In addition, a conviction can result in 6 points being added to your driving record. Accumulating eight points within a two-year period may lead to license suspension.
Negligent Driving
Negligent driving is a less severe charge than reckless driving, but it should still be taken seriously. Under Maryland law, a person is guilty of negligent driving if that person drives a motor vehicle in a careless or imprudent manner that endangers any property or the life or person of any individual.
Negligent driving is considered a lesser offense than reckless driving and carries less severe penalties. However, a conviction may result in a fine of up to $750, along with two points added to your driving record.
The Difference Between Reckless and Negligent
The words used to define reckless driving and negligent driving are wide open to interpretation, and the difference between reckless driving and negligent driving can be subjective. Essentially, reckless driving is operating a vehicle in a manner that is obviously dangerous, while negligent driving involves more subtle instances of bad driving.
An experienced lawyer knows that these offenses are highly dependent on the opinion of the police officer and can help you understand the charges you are facing.
Contact the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys in Maryland for Help Today
If you’ve received a ticket for reckless driving in Maryland, the results can be serious. That’s why you want an experienced traffic offense lawyer on your side. At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, our attorneys will work hard to get you the best possible outcome. Contact us online or call us at (301) 262-7005 to schedule a free consultation.
Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Prince George’s County, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Charles County and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste 201 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 262-7005
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Frederick Office
25 E Patrick St #200 Frederick, MD 21701
(301) 381-1993
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Rockville Office
11140 Rockville Pike 550-J Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 364-3195
Available 24/7