Getting a speeding ticket in Maryland can be an inconvenient and costly experience. However, knowing what to expect can help you navigate the process smoothly. This article will provide an overview of the steps involved and penalties you may face when getting a speeding ticket in Maryland.
How much are speeding tickets in Maryland?
Speeding fines in Maryland vary depending on how much over the speed limit you were driving. Fines range from $90 to $490. Here is a breakdown of the fines for speeding in Maryland:
| Speed Over Limit | Fine |
|---|---|
| 1-9 mph | $90 |
| 10-19 mph | $140 |
| 20-29 mph | $160 |
| 30-39 mph | $290 |
| 40+ mph | $490 |
In addition to the base fine, you will have to pay court costs and fees which can add $100 or more to the total. The court costs vary by county.
What happens when you get a speeding ticket in Maryland?
Here are the typical steps for what happens when you get a speeding ticket in Maryland:
- The officer will pull you over and ask for your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
- The officer will inform you that you were speeding and issue you a uniform traffic citation.
- You will be required to sign the citation, which is not an admission of guilt – just confirmation that you received the ticket.
- The officer will let you know the options to resolve the ticket, such as paying the fine or contesting it in court.
- You will have to pay the speeding ticket or appear in court by the date listed on the citation.
- If you pay the ticket, you can mail payment or pay online. This will close the case.
- To contest the ticket, you must request a court hearing in writing before the court date.
- If you are found guilty after a hearing, you will have to pay the fine. You may be able to request traffic school.
- If you do not pay or contest the ticket by the court date, your license may be suspended.
It’s important to note that when you pay a speeding ticket in Maryland, you are pleading guilty. Paying the ticket will result in points on your license as well as higher insurance rates.
How many points do you get for a speeding ticket in Maryland?
In Maryland, receiving a speeding ticket leads to points being assessed against your driver’s license. The number of points depends on how much over the speed limit you were traveling:
| Speed Over Limit | Points |
|---|---|
| 1-9 mph | 1 point |
| 10-29 mph | 2 points |
| 30+ mph | 5 points |
Points remain active on your license for 2 years from the date of the ticket. Accumulating 5 points or less is unlikely to result in further penalties. But if you build up 8-11 points, you may have to attend traffic school and your license could be suspended if you accumulate 12+ points.
How long does a speeding ticket stay on your record in Maryland?
In Maryland, a speeding ticket conviction will remain on your driving record for 5 years from the date of the violation. The ticket itself will show up on your record for 3 years. However, insurance companies may factor the violation into your premiums for considerably longer than that.
Does a speeding ticket raise your insurance in Maryland?
Yes, a speeding ticket is very likely to increase your auto insurance rates in Maryland. On average, a single speeding ticket can raise your premiums by 15-30% in Maryland. However, the increase depends on factors like:
- Your current insurance provider
- Your policy and driving history
- How much over the limit you were driving
- Whether you take a defensive driving course
To limit insurance increases after a speeding ticket in Maryland, you may want to consider taking a defensive driving course. This can allow you to request that points be waived from your license and may prevent your provider from raising rates. Shopping around for lower insurance rates after a ticket can also help minimize the impact on your premium.
Can you go to traffic school for a speeding ticket in Maryland?
Yes, you may be able to attend traffic school or a defensive driving course after getting a speeding ticket in Maryland. This allows you to have up to 5 points removed from your license.
To be eligible for traffic school in Maryland, the following requirements must be met:
- You cannot have attended traffic school within the past 5 years
- The ticket cannot be for more than 30 mph over the speed limit
- You must not have any additional tickets pending
- You generally need to have a valid Maryland license
You will need to request traffic school at your court hearing or submit a written request to the court. If approved, you will need to complete a classroom or online traffic course.
What happens if you don’t pay a speeding ticket in Maryland?
It is very important to promptly pay speeding tickets or request a court hearing in Maryland. Here’s what can happen if you do not pay or contest the ticket:
- A Failure to Pay or Failure to Appear (FTA) charge will be added, with additional fines up to $500
- Your license will be suspended
- Outstanding fines will be sent to collections
- Your car registration renewal may be denied until fines are paid
- You may be arrested on an outstanding warrant and your car could be impounded if pulled over again
To avoid further penalties, take steps to resolve any unpaid speeding tickets in Maryland right away. You may be able to get late fees waived and set up a payment plan.
Can you fight a speeding ticket in Maryland?
Yes, you have the right to fight a speeding ticket in Maryland. There are a few options for contesting a speeding citation:
- Request a hearing: Schedule a hearing at traffic court to contest the ticket before a judge. You will need to submit a written request before your court date.
- Hire an attorney: A traffic ticket attorney can represent you and potentially have the charges reduced or dismissed.
- Request driver improvement program: You may be able to have points waived if you complete a state-approved driver improvement course.
- Challenge equipment: You may contest the ticket by challenging the radar or laser equipment used to cite your speed.
Before a hearing, make sure to gather evidence in your defense, such as maintenance records showing your speedometer was faulty. Presenting a strong argument with supporting evidence can increase your chances of getting the ticket reduced or dismissed.
What options do out-of-state drivers have for speeding tickets in Maryland?
As an out-of-state driver, you have the same options to pay the ticket, request traffic school, or contest it in court. However, there are some additional considerations:
- Points will be added to your home state driver’s license according to their rules.
- Failure to pay may result in a hold placed on your license renewal in your home state.
- Your home state’s DMV or Secretary of State may be notified of the conviction.
- Appearing for your Maryland court date may require traveling back to the state unless you can arrange a telephonic appearance.
For convenience as an out-of-state driver, you may want to consider hiring a Maryland traffic ticket attorney to handle the citation for you. They can appear in court on your behalf and may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed without you having to travel.
What happens when you get a speeding ticket while driving a commercial vehicle in Maryland?
Speeding tickets are treated very seriously for commercial drivers in Maryland. Some key consequences include:
- Points will be added to your Maryland driving record as well as your home state.
- Your CDL may be downgraded for 60-120 days if you accumulate too many points.
- Excessive speeding may result in an immediate CDL disqualification.
- Your trucking company and the FMCSA will be notified, which may impact your employment.
- You will be required to pay the ticket or appear in court.
- Mandatory safety training may be assigned.
- Insurance rates may rise significantly.
If you get a speeding ticket in a CMV, it’s essential to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in commercial driver laws for your best defense options.
Conclusion
Speeding tickets in Maryland can lead to fines, increased insurance rates, license points, suspension, and many other penalties. Understanding the consequences and having a plan to respond to a citation is crucial. Paying a Maryland speeding ticket is an admission of guilt, so fight the ticket or explore traffic school if possible. Acting promptly to address a speeding citation, following the speed limit, and driving defensively can help avoid or limit the impact of violations in the future.
