New Maryland Reckless Driving Law: 30+ MPH Over the Limit

In 2024, 11,288 people died in speeding-related traffic crashes across the U.S. Lawmakers in Maryland decided that speeding fatalities must be addressed and passed a new law in 2025 to address dangerous speeding.

In this blog, we’ll outline the new law, the penalties associated with it, and possible defenses for those charged. Keep reading to learn more about reckless driving in Maryland.

What is the new law?

Maryland’s reckless driving law change was passed in 2025. The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act (Senate Bill 590) classifies speeding 30+ mph over the speed limit as reckless driving. It also has stricter penalties than the laws before it.

This law was passed after a law enforcement officer was injured by someone speeding.

What penalties are associated with the law?

The purpose of the new law is to reduce speeding and create safer roads. Reckless driving penalties in Maryland for 2025 include the following:

Fines

The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act carries fines of up to $1,000.

Points

The new law can also put six points on a person’s license. Driving points appear on a person’s Maryland driving record. The point system helps the MVA identify unsafe drivers.

Jail

The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act also includes up to 60 days of jail time as a possible punishment.

Under the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, some people may face more than one penalty.

Reckless speeding FAQs

Many people have questions about reckless speeding in Maryland. We’ve answered the most common questions below:

How does the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act impact speeding cases?

The main impact that the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act has on speeding is that offenders can face criminal charges now. Instead of just a speeding ticket, people may face a mandatory-appearance reckless driving charge, fines, driving points, and possible jail time. Anyone who has been charged with reckless driving in Maryland is encouraged to speak to a criminal defense attorney about their legal options.

What’s the difference between aggressive driving and reckless driving?

There are slight differences between aggressive, reckless, and negligent driving. Read about each below:

Aggressive driving

Aggressive driving in Maryland is classified as a driver committing at least three traffic offenses in a continuous sequence. Examples include:

• Running red lights
• Passing on the right
• Failing to yield to the right-of-way
• Improperly overtaking and passing other vehicles
• Exceeding speed limits
• Following other vehicles too closely

Aggressive driving puts everyone in the vicinity in danger. Under the new law, aggressive driving may be punished with five license points and a fine of up to $1,000.

Reckless driving

Reckless driving in Maryland includes driving with wanton or willful disregard for others’ safety or driving at least 30 mph above the posted speed limit. Examples of reckless driving include:

• Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit
• Racing
• Weaving
• Driving on the shoulder

A reckless driving conviction may result in fines, license points, and possible jail time.

Negligent driving

Negligent driving is driving carelessly or imprudently in a way that endangers people or property. The penalties for negligent driving include two points and up to $750 in fines.

Possible defense strategies for reckless driving under Maryland’s new law

There are a few options for defenses against reckless driving. Some of the most common are:

• Arguing it was an emergency and therefore a necessary action. Examples include a medical emergency or driving recklessly to avoid an accident with another driver.
• Challenging the radar’s calibration is another possible defense. It’s possible to request the calibration records to identify if there were errors.
• For reckless driving charges based on alleged wanton or willful disregard, disputing that the conduct showed willful disregard for safety.
• If there were many vehicles present, it may be possible to argue that law enforcement identified the incorrect driver.
• Seeking probation before judgment, when available, to avoid a conviction and driving points.
• Challenging the evidence presented. This is typically done by reviewing camera footage (law enforcement, dash cams, and local surveillance footage). It may also include gathering testimonies and analyzing reports to find inconsistencies.

Anyone facing reckless driving charges in Maryland doesn’t have to handle the situation alone. It’s recommended that they speak to an experienced defense attorney to learn more about their legal options.

How can a criminal defense lawyer help?

An experienced defense attorney helps their clients in several ways. People charged with reckless driving aren’t just dealing with stricter consequences. They may also see higher insurance premiums. Repeat offenders may get their license suspended or revoked.

A dedicated defense attorney fights for their clients’ rights. They strive to get the least severe impact possible. Attorneys help their clients by:

• Investigating the case to build a strong defense through witnesses and evidence
• Examining the prosecutor’s evidence to identify gaps or other issues
• Crafting the best defense strategy for the client’s unique situation
• Advocating for their client’s rights and negotiating for lesser sentences
• Educating their clients on the charges they are facing, their legal options, and possible outcomes

We encourage those charged with reckless driving to speak to an attorney as soon as possible. A knowledgeable attorney can educate them on their legal options.

Contact Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, for a consultation

The new reckless driving law has changed Maryland’s driving laws. The related penalties vary, but may include jail time. Anyone charged under this new law could benefit from having an attorney by their side.

Caught going 30 mph over the speed limit in Maryland? Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, wants to help. He has the knowledge needed to help clients fight reckless driving charges in Maryland. Contact Drew today to request a consultation to learn more about your legal options.