Reckless Driving Charge in Upper Marlboro? Maryland’s New Laws Make This a Serious Situation.
If you were charged with reckless driving in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, you are facing more than a simple traffic ticket. Reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving offenses now carry harsher penalties under updated Maryland law — including the threat of jail time, thousands in fines, major MVA points, and potential license suspension. Understanding how these charges are prosecuted statewide often begins with guidance from an experienced Maryland traffic lawyer.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch defends drivers throughout Upper Marlboro, Largo, Bowie, Mitchellville, Clinton, and all of Prince George’s County. Whether the citation happened on Route 4, Route 301, Old Crain Highway, Brown Station Road, or anywhere near the Prince George’s County Courthouse, working with a seasoned Prince George’s County traffic lawyer allows your case to be positioned for the best possible outcome.
Do not walk into the Upper Marlboro District Court without an experienced traffic defense lawyer — the stakes are simply too high.
Maryland’s Harsher Penalties for Reckless & Aggressive Driving
Since October 1, 2025, the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act has increased penalties for serious driving offenses across Maryland.
Key updates include:
- 30 mph or more over the speed limit now automatically qualifies as reckless driving
- Up to 60 days in jail and $1,000 fines for reckless driving
- 6 MVA points added to your record
- Negligent driving now carries increased fines (up to $750) and 2 points
- Aggressive driving requires three or more specified violations in a single incident
In Prince George’s County, reckless driving charges frequently arise from:
- High-speed driving on MD-4, MD-202, and U.S. 301
- Weaving in traffic or unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating or road rage behavior
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Dangerous maneuvers in school, residential, or construction zones
- Driving aggressively in high-congestion areas near the courthouse and county offices
For more details, see Maryland’s MVA point system.
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. This definition is intentionally broad, giving officers—and judges—wide discretion.
Common situations that lead to reckless driving charges in Upper Marlboro include:
- Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit on major routes
- Repeated unsafe lane changes or weaving
- Tailgating another vehicle aggressively
- Racing or high-speed acceleration from a stop
- Ignoring traffic signals or controlling devices
- Driving in a way that causes others to take evasive action
We review every detail the officer documented, including radar/laser readings, dashcam footage, environmental conditions, and witness statements to identify weaknesses in the State’s case.
Penalties for a Reckless Driving Conviction in Upper Marlboro
A reckless driving conviction can affect nearly every area of your life. Potential penalties include:
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 60 days in jail
- 6 points on your Maryland driving record
- Insurance rate spikes
- Potential license suspension or revocation
- Mandatory court appearance
- Career consequences for CDL holders or security clearance jobs
- Greater penalties if linked with DUI or other serious traffic offenses
A conviction stays with you for years — which is why early legal defense is essential.
To understand how points can lead to suspension, review the MVA guidelines.
How a Upper Marlboro Reckless Driving Lawyer Can Help
Every case is different — and the stakes are high. We build a defense tailored to your facts. Depending on what happened, we may:
- Challenge the legal basis for the traffic stop
- Scrutinize radar, laser, or pacing evidence
- Argue the driving does NOT meet Maryland’s definition of reckless
- Negotiate a reduction to negligent driving
- Pursue PBJ (Probation Before Judgment)
- Present mitigation such as driving school, clean history, or community steps
Our mission is always to protect your driving privileges and your long-term record.
Upper Marlboro & Prince George’s County Courts
Reckless driving cases in Prince George’s County are typically heard in:
- Upper Marlboro District Court — 14735 Main St, Upper Marlboro, MD
- Hyattsville District Court — 4990 Rhode Island Ave, Hyattsville, MD
Our team regularly appears in both courts and understands how local judges approach reckless and aggressive driving charges under Maryland’s revised laws.
Serving Upper Marlboro and Nearby Communities
We assist drivers throughout:
- Upper Marlboro
- Bowie
- Largo
- Mitchellville
- Clinton
- Hyattsville
- Prince George’s County
Other Maryland Cities we serve:
Contact an Upper Marlboro Reckless Driving Lawyer Today
A reckless driving charge can affect your job, your insurance, and your license — but you still have strong defenses available. The earlier you involve an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your future.
📞 Call 301-563-9575or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule your consultation.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic & Criminal Defense Lawyers. We’ve Got Your Back.
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