Experienced Traffic Ticket Attorneys
According to a report released this year, Maryland is the third-worst state to drive in. The state’s rank was brought down by rush-hour congestion, average commute time, miles driven, and its poor performance regarding incidents of aggressive acceleration, poor turning, harsh braking, and speeding.
It’s no surprise then that speeding tickets are among the most common type of traffic tickets in the state—usually the result of a police officer hiding away in their cruiser, pointing their laser or radar equipment at unsuspecting drivers. Unfortunately, speeding can sometimes become a reckless driving charge, and that can result in significant criminal penalties ranging from expensive fines to jail time. If you have been accused of speeding, contact our Baltimore speeding ticket lawyers at Scheuerman Law, LLC immediately. Even a minor traffic violation can have a significant impact on your ability to drive, and it is our mission to keep your record clean.
Understanding Maryland speeding fines is crucial, as even a minor infraction could cost you more than just money. It could lead to points on your record, higher insurance rates, and possible license suspension.
Call 443-888-2062 or contact us online today to speak with a Baltimore traffic ticket attorney
Basic Speed & Absolute Speed Limit Laws
Maryland abides by the absolute speed limit law, which means if you’re going 1 mph over the posted speed limit, you’re breaking the law and could be given a ticket by law enforcement. Even driving at the legal limit could get you a ticket if it’s deemed unsafe by a police officer—known as the basic speed law.
Unless otherwise posted, you’re prohibited from driving faster than:
- 15 mph in alleys
- 30 mph in business districts
- 30 mph on undivided highways in residential districts
- 35 mph on divided highways in residential districts
- 50 mph on undivided highways in non-residential districts
- 55 mph on divided highways in non-residential districts
What are the Penalties for Speeding in Maryland?
The consequences of a speeding violation depend on the circumstances, but generally it carries a fine and adds points to your driving record.
It’s important to be aware of Maryland speeding fines, which vary based on how far over the limit you were driving and the specific zone you were caught in. Below, you can find the different consequences for various violations:
- Violation of the basic speeding law: $90 fine and one point
- Exceeding a posted speed limit by 1 to 9 mph: $80 fine and one point
- Exceeding a posted speed limit by 10 to 19 mph: $90 fine and two points
- Exceeding a posted speed limit by 20 to 29 mph: $160 fine and two points
- Exceeding a posted speed limit of 65 or 75 miles mph by 10 to 19 mph: $160 fine and two points
- Exceeding a posted speed limit of 65 or 75 mph by 20 to 29 mph: $290 fine and five points
- Exceeding a posted speed limit by 30 to 39 mph: $290 fine and five points
- Exceeding a posted speed limit by at least 40 mph: $530 fine and five points
These Maryland speeding fines not only create financial burdens but also contribute to accumulating points that could jeopardize your driving privileges.
If you receive a certain amount of points over the course of two years, it can result in required enrollment in a Driver Improvement Program (5 to 7 points), license suspension (8 to 11 points), and license revocation (12 points or more). You also face a higher insurance rate with your provider.
Navigating Maryland speeding fines without legal guidance can be overwhelming, especially when multiple offenses stack up quickly.
What is Considered Reckless Driving?
Speed could lead to a reckless driving conviction if you drive your vehicle “in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property” or in a manner that indicates such a disregard. A first offense carries up to $1,000 in fines.
Aggressive and Affordable Defense for Traffic Tickets
As Baltimore traffic ticket attorneys, our goal is to protect your reputation, future, and freedom, both in and out of the courtroom. If you want personalized and tenacious representation to defend your rights, contact us today at Scheuerman Law, LLC.
Call 443-888-2062 or contact us online for a free confidential consultation now.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs related to spreading ticket charges.
1. How do Maryland speeding fines compare to other states?
Maryland speeding fines can be steep compared to some neighboring states, especially when excessive speed or reckless driving is involved. The fines escalate quickly based on how far over the limit you’re driving, and the state also adds points to your driving record. Additionally, Maryland’s strict absolute speed limit law means even minor infractions can result in fines, making it essential for drivers to be cautious.
2. Can I fight a Maryland speeding ticket if I was only a few miles over the limit?
Yes, you have the right to contest any speeding ticket in Maryland, even if you were just a few miles over the limit. Given how Maryland speeding fines are structured, fighting minor infractions may help prevent points from being added to your record and avoid increased insurance rates. An experienced traffic attorney can evaluate the circumstances and advise you on the best defense.
3. How do Maryland speeding fines affect my car insurance?
Receiving a speeding ticket in Maryland often results in points being added to your driving record, which can lead to a noticeable increase in your car insurance premiums. Insurance companies view speeding violations as indicators of risky driving behavior, so even a single ticket can cause your rates to go up significantly.
4. What should I do if I’m facing multiple speeding tickets in Maryland?
If you’re dealing with multiple speeding tickets, it’s crucial to seek legal advice immediately. Accumulating tickets not only increases Maryland speeding fines but also adds points to your record, potentially leading to license suspension or revocation. A traffic attorney can help negotiate reduced charges or explore options like a Driver Improvement Program.
5. Are there any circumstances where Maryland speeding fines can be reduced or waived?
Yes, in some cases Maryland speeding fines can be reduced or even waived, especially if you have a clean driving record or complete a court-approved driver improvement course. Appearing in court and having a knowledgeable traffic attorney represent you can also improve your chances of minimizing the fines or points.