Speeding Ticket in Maryland: Everything You Need to Know
Getting a speeding ticket in Maryland can be an expensive and frustrating experience. However, understanding the laws and consequences can help you avoid future tickets and keep your driving record clean. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about speeding tickets in Maryland.
Contents
Maryland Speeding Laws
Maryland has a specific set of laws in place to regulate speed limits and penalties for violating them. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- The maximum speed limit on highways in Maryland is 65 mph, while in residential areas and school zones, it can be as low as 20 mph.
- The state also has a “Basic Speed Law,” which means drivers must drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent under the given conditions. This means that even if the posted speed limit is higher, you could still receive a ticket for driving too fast for the current weather or traffic conditions.
- In addition to monetary fines, points may be added to your driving record for speeding violations. The number of points depends on how much over the speed limit you were driving.
Maryland Speeding Ticket Fines
The fines for speeding tickets in Maryland vary based on the speed at which you were caught driving over the limit. Here is a breakdown of the fines:
| Speeding Over Limit | Fine |
|---|---|
| Up to 9 mph | $80 |
| 10-19 mph | $90 |
| 20-29 mph | $160 |
| 30-39 mph | $290 |
| 40+ mph | $530 |
It is important to note that these fines only apply to non-commercial drivers. If you are caught speeding while driving a commercial vehicle, the fines will be much higher.
Maryland Speeding Ticket Points
In addition to fines, points can also be added to your driving record for speeding violations. Here is how many points you can expect for different speeding violations:
| Speeding Over Limit | Points |
|---|---|
| Up to 9 mph | 1 |
| 10-19 mph | 2 |
| 20-29 mph | 3 |
| 30-39 mph | 5 |
| 40+ mph | 5 |
Accumulating too many points on your driving record can result in license suspension or revocation.
Fighting a Maryland Speeding Ticket
If you receive a speeding ticket in Maryland, you have the option to contest it in court. Here are some possible defenses you could use:
- Challenging the accuracy of the radar gun used to catch your speed
- Arguing that the speed limit sign was not clearly visible or obstructed
- Claiming that you were forced to speed to avoid an accident or other emergency situation
It is important to note that contesting a ticket may require hiring a lawyer and can be costly, so it is important to weigh the potential costs and benefits before proceeding.
Conclusion
Receiving a speeding ticket in Maryland can be a stressful experience, but understanding the laws and consequences can help you avoid future violations. Remember to always drive at a safe and reasonable speed, and pay attention to posted speed limits and any weather or traffic conditions. If you do receive a ticket, consider contesting it in court or seeking legal advice.