Baltimore Reckless Driving Lawyer
Individuals charged with reckless driving in Maryland may have to pay considerable fines if convicted. A court may also levy punishments including license points and suspension under certain circumstances in the event of a conviction. A Baltimore reckless driving lawyer could leverage a wide variety of resources to ensure the best possible defense for your case. A skilled defense attorney could review the facts of your case and advise you on the best steps to take.
Reckless vs. Negligent
Maryland Code, Transportation § 21-901.1 defines reckless driving in the state. Reckless driving is when someone is operating a motor vehicle with a deliberate indifference to the wellbeing of other individuals or their property. A reckless driving conviction would be classified as a misdemeanor charge, punishable by a payable fine of $510.
If the accused decides to go to court to dispute the ticket, it is at the judge’s discretion to diminish the fine or elevate it to a maximum fine amount of $1,000. Furthermore, if convicted of reckless driving, a person may receive six license points. If they receive eight points or more within 24 months, the individual’s license could be suspended.
Negligent driving is a similar offense to reckless driving, and is defined as operating a motor vehicle with careless disregard for the life, limb, or property of others. While negligent driving may be a lesser charge, a conviction could be punishable by license points and fines upwards of $500. An experienced lawyer in Baltimore could thoroughly investigate all components of the person’s reckless driving case in an effort to avert a criminal record.
Aggressive Driving
If a motorist engages in three violations or more at the same time, they could face aggressive driving charges. Examples of motorist behaviors that may fall under aggressive driving include:
- Driving over the maximum posted speed limit
- Passing another car on the right side
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Failure to follow posted signs and traffic lights
- Following too closely behind another motorist
- Unsafely passing another motor vehicle
Aggressive driving falls under reckless driving in Maryland. If someone accumulates at least three of these violations, a reckless driving attorney in Baltimore could help safeguard their license and rights if charges alleging aggressive driving are made.
Driving While Impaired (DWI) or Under the Influence (DUI)
Maryland law imposes stringent penalties on individuals who are convicted of driving while impaired or influenced by drugs or alcohol. Greater penalties may apply in cases where the motorist is found to have been transporting a minor.
Drunk-driving related charges would typically be classified as misdemeanor offenses, with legal punishments including prison terms and considerable fines. Fines could be anywhere from $500 to upwards of $5,000, while periods of incarceration may be ordered for up to five years. An individual who is facing charges for driving under the influence or impaired driving should consider hiring a qualified Baltimore attorney to handle their reckless driving case.
A Baltimore Reckless Driving Attorney Could Assist with Your Case
If convicted of reckless driving or another related offense, you could be forced to pay hefty fines, incur points on your license, and damage to your reputation. A Baltimore reckless driving lawyer could seek to mitigate the charges leveled against you and work hard to attain a positive result.
If you have been charged with reckless driving or another driving violation, do not delay in contacting a skilled attorney. Call now to schedule your initial case review with a Baltimore lawyer.