Reckless Driving - Gritz, Hanifin

Starting October 1, 2025, reckless driving in Maryland will be a jailable offense. If you are charged with reckless driving, you will need the assistance of a Maryland reckless driving lawyer.

What will qualify as Reckless Driving?

Driving 30 mph or more over the posted speed limit
A person can be charged with reckless driving if the police officer thinks that the person is driving in a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property or in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property
- This means that even if a person is driving less than 30 mph over the speed limit, a police officer might still charge you with reckless driving if the speed is considered dangerously high or is combined with other unsafe maneuvers, such as failing to yield the right of way to another person or pedestrian, following too closely, or other traffic violations.
Reckless Driving can also be charged when a person is charged with DUI / DWI

Consequences of a Reckless Driving Charge in Maryland

If you are convicted of reckless driving, you could face:

Up to 60 days in jail
A fine of up to $1,000
6 points placed against your Maryland driving record
Requirement to take a driver improvement class
Having your privilege to drive suspended
Rise in insurance rates
Risk to your employment

What To Do if You’re Charged with Reckless Driving

If you are charged with reckless driving, call the Law Offices of Gritz, Hanifin & Shih, LLC at 301-217-9200 right away.

As reckless driving defense attorneys, we will investigate the charge and work diligently to fight these charges and seek the best outcome for you.

MARYLAND Transportation Article § 21-901.1. Reckless and negligent driving. [Effective October 1, 2025]
(a) A person is guilty of reckless driving if the person drives a motor vehicle:
(1) In wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property;
(2) In a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property; or
(3) At a speed at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit.
(b) A person is guilty of negligent driving if the person drives a motor vehicle in a careless or imprudent manner that endangers any property or the life or person of any individual.
(c)
(1) A person convicted of a violation of subsection (a) of this section is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 60 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.
(2) A person convicted of a violation of subsection (b) of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $750.