Maryland Reckless Driving Lawyer

A reckless driving charge can affect your license, your insurance rates, your job, and your driving record. Many people are surprised by how serious the accusation is. As a Maryland reckless driving lawyer, I help clients understand what they are facing, what the law requires, and how to protect their future.

I have defended drivers across Maryland for decades. I appear in traffic court regularly, and I know how judges and officers assess reckless driving allegations. My job is to explain your options clearly, review the evidence, and guide you toward the strongest outcome possible. To begin, it helps to understand what Maryland considers reckless driving.

Understanding Reckless Driving Charges in Maryland

Under Maryland law, reckless driving means operating a motor vehicle with wanton or willful disregard for the safety of people or property. 

Reckless and negligent driving are different, and the latter involves a careless way of driving but does not require the same level of disregard. It also differs from aggressive driving, which requires committing certain traffic violations in the same incident, such as speeding, following too closely, or ignoring traffic signals.

Behaviors that may lead to a reckless driving charge include:

• Driving far above the speed limit
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Passing in unsafe locations
• Ignoring road conditions or nearby vehicles

A police officer must be able to point to specific actions to support the allegation. As a Maryland traffic lawyer, I examine those details closely. Sometimes the issue involves speed estimation, witness accuracy, or whether the facts truly meet the legal standard for reckless driving in Maryland.

Penalties for Reckless Driving

The penalties for reckless driving depend on your driving record, the circumstances of the incident, and whether the behavior caused any property damage or an accident. A reckless driving conviction may result in:

• Six points on your driver’s license
• Steep fines
• A required driver improvement program
• Higher insurance rates
• Possible license suspension if you already have points
• Potential jail time for very serious cases or related charges

My goal is always to reduce penalties, protect your driving privileges, and limit the long-term impact on your record.

Negligent Driving vs Aggressive Driving in Maryland

While related, negligent driving and aggressive driving are separate offenses with different penalties.

Negligent driving involves driving in a careless way that endangers property or people. It carries fewer points and lower fines than reckless driving.

Aggressive driving requires a combination of violations, which may include speeding, improper passing, running a red light, or failing to yield. The penalties increased after the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, which was passed to address dangerous roadway behavior.

As a Maryland traffic violation lawyer, I help clients understand these distinctions because reducing a reckless driving charge to negligent or aggressive driving can lower the penalties significantly.

Why These Laws Matter for Maryland Drivers

Recent legislative changes show that Maryland is treating roadway safety more seriously. The Patrick Kepp Act tightened enforcement and made reckless driving a mandatory court-appearance offense. Drivers can no longer simply pay the fine. A judge must review the case and consider the level of risk involved.

This change matters because:

• Drivers must prepare for a court appearance
• Evidence and officer statements carry more weight
• Judges may impose stronger consequences for unsafe behavior
• A reckless driving conviction has long-term effects on insurance and employment

Understanding how these traffic laws work gives you a better sense of what to expect and helps you respond effectively if you face a reckless driving ticket.

How a Maryland Reckless Driving Defense Attorney Can Help

Representation can make a meaningful difference in reckless driving cases. My role includes:

• Reviewing the evidence, including speed readings, observations, and body-camera footage
• Challenging the officer’s interpretation of your driving
• Identifying gaps in the state’s proof
• Negotiating for reduced charges, such as negligent driving
• Protecting your driving privileges with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
• Guiding you through the court process so you never feel unprepared

Many reckless driving cases involve questions about speed, distance, or whether a driver’s behavior actually rose to the level of wanton or willful disregard. In other traffic violations, I work to show that the event was isolated, that you have a clean record, or that reduced penalties are appropriate.

When reckless driving is part of a larger case that includes DUI allegations, my experience as a Maryland DUI lawyer helps me handle every component at once. The goal is always to protect your record and limit the long-term consequences.

Maryland Counties We Serve:

• Anne Arundel County
• Baltimore County
• Charles County
• Frederick County
• Howard County
• Montgomery County
• Prince George’s County

Why Choose David R. Waranch for Reckless Driving Defense

I have handled thousands of traffic cases across Maryland, including serious driving offenses that require careful preparation and a clear plan. Clients work with me because they want an attorney who is responsive, honest, and experienced in traffic court.

I review every case individually, explain your options in plain language, and help you make decisions that protect your future. Whether you face a first offense or a situation involving prior points, you receive focused attention and a strategy tailored to your needs.

If you are facing reckless driving charges, now is the time to act. I offer a free consultation so you can understand what you are dealing with and what steps make the most sense.

Contact a Maryland Reckless Driving Defense Attorney Today

If you have been charged with reckless driving or related traffic violations, reach out as soon as possible. Early guidance helps protect your license, your record, and your peace of mind. I am available to review your situation, answer your questions, and help you take control of the situation before penalties increase.

FAQs About Reckless Driving in Maryland