At What Point Does a Maryland Driver’s License Get Suspended?
A driver’s license is a privilege that allows individuals to operate a vehicle legally. However, this privilege can be suspended under certain circumstances when drivers fail to comply with the rules and regulations set by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). But at what point does a license get suspended?
One common reason for a driver’s license suspension is the accumulation of points on a driving record. If you accumulate eight to ten points, the MVA delivers a notice of suspension. Other reasons include failing to appear in court, paying fines, or making child support payments. If your license was suspended in Maryland, The Law Office of Hillel Traub can help fight for your driving privileges. We can look into why your license was suspended and advise you on your best legal options to get back on the road.
4 Common Causes of License Suspension in Maryland
Whether a license suspension notice is anticipated or not, it is essential for all motorists to understand the various causes of suspension and how to avoid a gap in driving privileges.
The following are the common causes that lead to a driver’s license suspension for Maryland drivers:
1. Failure to Appear for a Court Date
Failure to comply with court orders can result in a driver’s license suspension. If a driver fails to appear for a court date for a traffic violation, the MVA will suspend their license. It is important to address any legal obligations promptly and follow through with court requirements to avoid the loss of driving privileges.
2. Failure to Pay Fines
Failing to pay court-imposed fines or costs can also result in license suspension. If a Maryland driver ignores a court’s order to pay a fine or ticket, the MVA will be notified, resulting in a loss of driving privileges until the ticket or fine is paid.
3. Failure to Pay Child Support
Child Support Enforcement Administration (CSEA) may decide to suspend an individual’s license if a parent falls behind on their child support obligations. The CSEA is authorized to order the MVA to suspend a license after falling behind on payments for at least 60 days.
4. Points on Your Driving Record
One common reason for a driver’s license suspension is the accumulation of points on one’s driving record. The MVA assigns points for various driving violations, such as speeding, reckless driving, running red lights, or DUIs. If a driver accumulates eight to eleven points within a two-year period, they will be sent a notice of suspension.
Serious traffic violations can result in an immediate suspension of a Maryland driver’s license. Examples include DWIs, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death, vehicular manslaughter, or engaging in street racing.
How to Handle a License Suspension Notice
Receiving a driver’s license suspension notice can be a stressful event. However, it is important to remain calm and take appropriate steps to address the situation promptly. If you find yourself facing a license suspension in Maryland, consider the following options:
- Surrender your license by mailing it in or delivering it in person to the nearest Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration office by the date listed on your notice. If you are late, your suspension period will be extended.
- Fight the suspension. You have 15 days to contest a Maryland license suspension and to request a hearing. Contact an experienced license suspension lawyer skilled in handling these types of cases and can help you navigate the process.
It’s important to note that until the hearing, your license is still deemed suspended, which means you are not legally permitted to drive.
Contact a License Suspension Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we can help you understand the factors that contributed to your license suspension and offer you experienced guidance on how to reinstate your driving privileges.
As a former lawyer for the MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub ensures your rights are protected and fights for your best interests. He has over 30 years of experience and is ready to work hard for your case as well. Schedule a complimentary consultation by calling (410) 580-1100 or filling out our contact form today.