30 MPH Is Now Reckless Driving in Maryland
Prior to October 1, 2025, state law treated excessive speeding as a serious traffic violation. After this date, 30 mph is now reckless driving in Maryland and is a criminal offense with harsher penalties.
This change is one of several statutory amendments designed to enhance traffic safety. If law enforcement has charged you with reckless driving or any other serious traffic offense, contact a traffic defense attorney at Price Benowitz to discuss your case.
When Is Speeding Reckless Driving?
State law defines reckless driving as a driver operating a vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This includes driving at excessive speeds, particularly when combined with other dangerous behaviors.
Under the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, effective October 1, 2025, driving 30 mph or more over the posted speed limit in Maryland automatically qualifies as reckless driving. This change reclassifies what was previously a high-tier speeding violation into a criminal offense, carrying potential penalties of up to 60 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, and six points on your driving record.
Additionally, the law defines aggressive driving as committing three or more specific traffic offenses, such as speeding, tailgating, or running red lights, in a single, continuous period of driving. While aggressive driving is a serious offense, it is generally non-jailable with a fine of up to $1,000.
What Should I Do if I Am Charged With Reckless Driving?
If you receive a reckless driving charge, it is important to take the matter seriously.
First, remain calm and avoid discussing the case with officers or on social media, as anything you say could be used against you. You have the right to remain silent and should always exercise this right until you have defense representation.
Next, hire an experienced traffic defense attorney. Maryland’s reckless driving laws carry severe penalties, including fines, points on your license, and even jail time, especially under the new law for speeding by 30 mph or more. Your lawyer could review evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and explore possible defenses such as challenging speed measurements or showing mitigating circumstances.
Finally, attend all court dates and comply with any conditions imposed upon you. Acting promptly and strategically could significantly affect the outcome and help protect your driving record and future.
What Are Defenses to Reckless Driving Charges?
Since reckless driving, including driving 30 mph or more over the limit, is now a criminal charge in Maryland, you have the right to due process. When you hire a traffic defense lawyer, they could help determine what defenses may apply to the charges against you. Defenses to reckless driving charges include:
- The officer incorrectly perceived or relayed what they saw
- There was an emergency that caused you to drive too fast
- The device measuring your speed was faulty or broken
- You were a victim of mistaken identity
- Your conduct did not qualify as reckless driving
Even if you decide to plead guilty, a skilled traffic defense lawyer could negotiate with the prosecutor and may be able to obtain a lighter punishment.
Contact a Maryland Lawyer to Discuss a Reckless Driving Charge for Going 30 mph Over the Limit
With the enactment of a new law stating that 30 mph is now reckless driving in Maryland, you may need an attorney if you face such a charge.
Price Benowitz offers experienced traffic defense representation to help protect your license, driving record, and future. From negotiating reduced charges to representing you in court, our dedicated legal team works to achieve the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
