Key Changes in the Maryland Reckless Driving Law
There have been recent key changes in the Maryland reckless driving law, focusing primarily on excessive speed, which could now result in jail time.
If you have been charged with reckless, aggressive, or negligent driving, do not hesitate to talk with an experienced reckless driving defense attorney at Price Benowitz.
Understanding the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act
Maryland’s new reckless driving legislation is the work of the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act. This name is in honor of an officer who was seriously injured as a result of a motorist’s dangerously reckless driving. The changes include the following:
- An expanded definition of reckless driving and enhanced penalties
- The possibility of jail time for reckless driving
- Speeding 30 mph over the limit is now reckless driving
- A streamlined definition of aggressive driving and enhanced penalties
- Enhanced penalties for negligent driving
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving refers to a display of wanton disregard for the safety of others on the road or for their property. While this definition has not changed, the charge has broadened to include driving at least 30 mph over the speed limit.
Excess speed often leads to fatal outcomes, so Maryland has made some crucial legal changes to address reckless driving directly. If you have been charged with reckless driving, a conviction could result in a jail sentence of up to 60 days. The related fines have also increased from $500 to $1,000.
Finally, you could expect six points to be levied against your driver’s license. This is just two points away from a license suspension and represents half the points needed for a revocation.
These are significant changes that you should take seriously.
Aggressive Driving
The charge of aggressive driving in Maryland has been modified substantially to apply specifically to drivers who engage in patterns of dangerous driving practices. If three or more of the following apply in the span of one excursion, the charge of aggressive driving may apply:
- Disregarding a steady traffic light
- Speeding
- Passing dangerously, such as on the right
- Following another driver too closely, also known as tailgating
- Refusing to yield the right-of-way as required by law
An aggressive driving conviction may not result in jail time, but the fines have increased to $1,000, and the points against your driver’s license have increased to five.
Negligent Driving
Unlike Maryland’s reckless driving laws, the charge of negligent driving remains unchanged in scope. The definition still involves careless driving practices that put other people or their property at risk. However, if you are cited with negligent driving, the fines you face have increased to $750, and the points against your license have increased to two.
Could The New Legislation Affect Your Car Insurance Coverage?
The changes in the reckless driving laws could affect your car insurance premiums in Maryland. A conviction for reckless driving, aggressive driving, or negligent driving could significantly raise this expense. There is also the possibility that your coverage may be cancelled.
Collateral Consequences Are Also Harsh
In Maryland, reckless driving is now a criminal offense, which may result in a criminal record that is publicly available. If a job requires you to drive and an employer conducts a background check, you might be disqualified. It could affect a professional license, depending on the profession and circumstances. Regardless, your insurance rate may increase.
Discuss the Changes in Maryland Reckless Driving Legislation With a Defense Lawyer
A qualified reckless driving defense lawyer understands how a conviction could impact your life and could help resolve your case favorably.
Contact Price Benowitz online or call today for a free case evaluation and to learn more about the key changes in the Maryland reckless driving law.
