SEVERITY OF RECKLESS DRIVING

Reckless driving may sound like a seemingly insignificant charge to face, but the repercussions can be impactful and irreversible. Maryland law has a rather vague definition of reckless driving as the crime is identified as the deliberate operation of a motor vehicle with disregard for the safety of persons or property.

What one may deem deliberate or unsafe may not be the same as another’s interpretation. This presents the opportunity for Maryland police officers to cite a driver for reckless driving when the individual may have only been going just over the speed limit. The best way to protect oneself from a potentially damaging criminal conviction is through the acquisition of a seasoned defense attorney.

Baltimore reckless driving lawyer Hillel Traub is a knowledgeable defense attorney who is abreast of prosecution tactics. He can look through case details, structure a sound defense, and help mitigate charges to achieve the most favorable outcome for you.

EXAMPLES OF RECKLESS DRIVING IN BALTIMORE

Reckless driving can manifest itself in numerous ways. A law enforcement officer can cite an individual for reckless driving if he or she is doing one or a combination of the following examples:

• Ignoring traffic signs and signals
• Tailgating
• Speeding 20 mph or more over the limit
• Street racing
• Driving on the shoulder
• Frequently weaving in and out of lanes
• Passing in restricted areas

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) groups both reckless and negligent driving under § 21-901. Negligent driving, however, more so refers to operating a motor vehicle in a “careless or imprudent manner.” Law enforcement will cite the violation they see most fit for the circumstance, but it is your attorney’s duty to question the relevance of your charges to help lessen penalties.

PENALTIES FOR RECKLESS DRIVING

Reckless driving is a criminal act in Maryland, meaning that those convicted will have a misdemeanor on their record. They will also face:

• 6-point addition to driving record
• Up to $500 in fines

The addition of six points to a driving record requires the driver to enroll in a driver improvement course. When one’s reckless driving results in property damage, serious injury, or a fatality, jail time and license suspension may be imposed as well. Repeat offenders face increased fines, jail time, and license revocation.

Appearing in court is not a requirement for a reckless driving charge unless you wish to contest the charge. In such an instance, it is highly beneficial to have a local defense attorney on your side.

BALTIMORE CRIMINAL DEFENSE FOR RECKLESS DRIVING

The Law Office of Hillel Traub has managed numerous cases involving reckless driving charges and achieved positive outcomes for people like you. A reckless driving conviction has grave consequences, which is why we utilize all of our legal resources to build a strong case to help get charges lessened or dropped altogether.

Do not accept fault by paying fines. Get in touch with a Baltimore reckless driving lawyer who can make you aware of your legal options. Contact us today at 410-580-1100 for a free consultation.