Facing a Reckless Driving Charge in Catonsville? The Stakes Just Got Higher.
A reckless driving charge in Catonsville, Maryland is a serious offense — not a simple payable citation. With Maryland’s updated reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving laws, the stakes are higher than ever. A conviction can lead to jail time, heavy fines, points, and long-lasting consequences on your license and employment.
At the Law Offices of David R. Waranch, we defend drivers throughout Catonsville and Baltimore County. Whether your ticket occurred on I-695, Frederick Road, Route 40, Rolling Road, or a neighborhood street, we know how to challenge the evidence and protect your driving privileges.
You shouldn’t walk into Catonsville District Court alone — especially under Maryland’s strengthened traffic laws.
Huge Changes to Maryland Reckless, Negligent & Aggressive Driving Laws
Effective October 1, 2025, the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act significantly increases the penalties for reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving across Maryland — including Catonsville and the rest of Baltimore County.
Some of the changes include:
- 30 mph or more over the speed limit now automatically qualifies as reckless driving.
- Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $1,000 for reckless driving.
- 6 MVA points added to your record, raising suspension risk.
- Negligent driving penalties increased — up to $750 and 2 points.
- Aggressive driving now requires three or more dangerous violations in one episode.
Examples of driving behavior that commonly leads to reckless driving citations in Catonsville include:
- High-speed driving on I-695 or Route 40
- Weaving or repeated unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating or brake-checking
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Passing illegally or driving on the shoulder
- Failing to yield to pedestrians or cyclists
- Aggressive driving in heavy traffic areas
These changes mean many cases that were once payable are now mandatory court appearances with criminal-level penalties.
To understand how points affect your license, you can review the Maryland MVA point system guidelines, but your best protection is hiring a defense attorney early.
What Counts as Reckless Driving in Maryland?
Maryland defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of people or property. Police have broad discretion in issuing this citation, especially on busy roads like I-695 or Baltimore National Pike. Because reckless driving is treated as a serious offense statewide, many drivers seek guidance from an experienced Maryland traffic lawyer when facing these charges.
Common Catonsville scenarios that lead to reckless driving charges include:
- Driving 30+ mph above the posted speed limit
- Unsafe or repeated lane changes on the beltway
- Tailgating during heavy traffic
- Running red lights at major intersections
- Failing to yield or ignoring pedestrian crossings
- Road rage or confrontational driving behavior
Even if you never intended harm, officers may still issue a reckless driving citation if they believe your driving created a safety risk. Part of our job is challenging whether your actions truly met the legal standard of “reckless.”
We review all available evidence — the officer’s narrative, speed measurement, dashcam footage, witness statements, and traffic conditions — to build a strong defense and pursue reductions where appropriate. Having a knowledgeable Baltimore traffic lawyer involved early can be critical to protecting your record.
Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction in Catonsville
A reckless driving conviction in Maryland comes with long-lasting consequences, including:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Up to 60 days in jail
- 6 MVA points on your record
- Significant insurance rate increases
- Mandatory court appearance
- Risk of license suspension or revocation
- Professional or employment-related consequences
- Serious penalties for CDL holders
These penalties can be much worse if your reckless driving charge is connected to DUI/DWI or other serious traffic violations.
The MVA point guidelines explain how quickly points can trigger suspensions — but with the right defense strategy, many clients avoid these outcomes entirely.
How a Catonsville Reckless Driving Lawyer Can Help
Reckless driving cases depend heavily on the details. Our defense strategies may include:
- Challenging the basis of the traffic stop
- Reviewing radar, LiDAR, or pacing accuracy
- Arguing your conduct does not legally meet the reckless driving standard
- Negotiating reductions to negligent driving or a lesser offense
- Pursuing PBJ (Probation Before Judgment) where appropriate
- Presenting mitigation evidence such as driving school or clean driving history
Every case is different. We provide clear, honest guidance and work to achieve the best outcome available.
Catonsville Courts: Local Experience Matters
Reckless driving cases from Catonsville are typically heard at the:
- Essex District Court — 8914 Kelso Dr, Essex, MD
- Catonsville District Court (when applicable based on officer/jurisdiction)
Because we regularly defend clients in Baltimore County courts, we know what local judges and prosecutors look for — and how to build a strong defense under the new Maryland laws.
Serving Catonsville & Nearby Communities
We defend reckless driving charges throughout Catonsville and nearby areas, including:
- Woodlawn
- Arbutus
- Halethorpe
- Ellicott City
- Gwynn Oak
- Pikesville
You can also view related Catonsville-area reckless driving pages here:
Contact a Catonsville Reckless Driving Lawyer Today
A reckless driving charge in Catonsville can follow you for years — but you still have options. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your record and your license.
📞 Call 301-563-9575 or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule your consultation today.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic & Criminal Defense Lawyers. We’ve Got Your Back.
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