Recent changes to Maryland law now treat reckless driving as a much more serious offense. Drivers going 30 miles over the speed limit will now face reckless driving charges. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction can carry up to 60 days in jail, fines of up to $1,000, points on your driving record, increased insurance costs, and other long-term consequences.
How Maryland Now Treats Reckless Driving
Reckless driving has been one of Maryland’s most serious traffic offenses, but the consequences have recently become much more severe. While a reckless driving conviction previously carried fines and points on a driver’s record, recent changes to Maryland law now make jail time a possibility, in certain cases. The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act was enacted because Maryland State Police Sergeant Patrick Kepp had both of his legs amputated due to his injuries from a reckless driver. The legislation was enacted to increase penalties for dangerous driving behaviors and help make roads safer for everyone.
What is Considered Reckless Driving in Maryland?
Under Maryland law, reckless driving typically involves engaging in one of two types of driving dangerously.
Driving 30 mph or More Over the Speed Limit
Driving 30 mph or more over the posted speed limit can result in a reckless driving charge in Maryland.
Driving That Puts Others at Risk
A reckless driving charge in Maryland is not limited to excessive speeding. Aggressively weaving through traffic, tailgating, racing, ignoring traffic signals, making unsafe lane changes, or engaging in other dangerous maneuvers could be a reckless driving charge. Even if no accident occurs, law enforcement may determine that a driver’s actions created an unreasonable risk of harm to people or property.
What Are the Consequences for Reckless Driving in Maryland?
A reckless driving charge in Maryland can result in serious penalties, including:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Points added to your driving record
- Increased auto insurance premiums
- Potential license suspension or revocation for repeat or serious offenses
- A permanent traffic conviction on your driving record
- Additional penalties if the conduct resulted in an accident, injury, or death
- Negative impacts on employment opportunities that require driving
Because the consequences can extend far beyond the initial fine, it is important to take a reckless driving charge seriously, and contact Alpert Schreyer, LLCs Reckless Driving Attorneys in Maryland 24/7 by calling us at (301) 720-1309 or filling out our online form. During your consultation we will:
- Conduct a comprehensive review of your arrest record.
- Review your charges and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and any legal issues that may affect the evidence.
- Explain potential penalties, including fines, probation, jail or prison time, and collateral consequences.
- Go over potential defenses and legal arguments for your case.
- Assessment of the evidence, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence.
- Explain what the next steps are.
What if I Was Charged With a DUI and Reckless Driving in Maryland?
In Maryland, if you’ve been drinking and driving recklessly, you could be charged with both a DUI and reckless driving. Although the charges are separate, both charges are commonly filed when impairment is thought to have caused unsafe driving. Because both charges carry serious consequences, it is important to have an experienced DUI and reckless driving attorney review the facts of your case, evaluate the evidence, and protect your rights.
Attorney Andrew Alpert, is the only National College for DUI Defense (NCDD) board-certified DUI defense lawyer in Maryland, and is an expert in Field Sobriety Testing (FST), which means we know how to thoroughly analyze police reports, see whether FSTs were administered improperly, and challenge the arresting officer’s initial roadside assessments.
Contact Our Maryland Reckless Driving Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
Hiring a criminal defense attorney that’s experienced in reckless driving and DUIs, if you were charged with both, will ensure your rights are protected and help get the best defense possible. Contact Alpert Schreyer, LLC for a free consultation by calling us (301) 298-3306 or filling out our online form. We have offices in Waldorf, Rockville, Lanham, and Frederick, and help all clients in Maryland.
FAQs
Is reckless driving a misdemeanor in Maryland?
Yes. Reckless driving is classified as a misdemeanor traffic offense in Maryland and can carry serious legal and financial consequences.
Can I get a reckless driving charge for speeding alone?
Yes. Excessive speeding—such as driving 30 mph or more over the posted speed limit—can result in a reckless driving charge, even without other violations or an accident.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in Maryland?
Penalties may include fines, points on your driving record, possible license consequences, increased insurance rates, and a permanent mark on your driving history.
Do I need to cause an accident to be charged with reckless driving?
No. An accident is not required. A charge can be based solely on how dangerous the driving behavior was, even if no crash occurred.
How many points is reckless driving in Maryland?
A reckless driving conviction typically adds 6 points to your Maryland driving record.
Can reckless driving charges be reduced or dismissed?
In some cases, yes. Depending on the facts, charges may be reduced or dismissed through negotiation or by challenging the evidence in court.
Should I hire a lawyer for a reckless driving charge?
A reckless driving charge is a misdemeanor in Maryland that can carry serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and points on your record. An Alpert Schreyer, LLC attorney can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and make sure you get the best outcome. Contact us 24/7 at (301) 720-1309 or fill out our online form.