Reckless driving and negligent driving are two of the most common tickets Maryland drivers receive. While neither of these violations will likely result in jail time, they should still be taken seriously. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) can take away your driving privileges. That’s why, depending on the circumstances, it might be a good idea to hire an attorney to defend you.
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; or (2) in a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol can also be considered reckless driving. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor and will result in a scheduled $510 fine ( a judge may impose a fine of up to $1,000) and 6 points on your license. If you accumulate 8 points on your license in a two-year period, your license may be suspended.
NEGLIGENT DRIVING
Negligent driving is a less severe charge than reckless driving but 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 a lesser included offense of reckless driving. The penalty is less severe. The scheduled fine is $140, and a conviction puts 1 point on 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. Basically, 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.
CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED TRAFFIC OFFENSE LAWYER
If you’ve received a ticket for reckless driving, the results can be serious. That’s why you want an experienced traffic offense lawyer on your side. At Alpert Schreyer our attorneys will work hard to get you the best possible outcome. Contact us online or call us at (301) 494-9620 for a free consultation.