Starting October 1, 2025, there will be key changes in the Maryland reckless driving laws. You will have a much higher risk of jail time for significantly exceeding the speed limit, even if nobody gets hurt and there is no accident.
If you are facing reckless driving charges, you need to get an experienced traffic defense attorney from the Maryland Criminal Defense Law Group on your side right away.
Before the recent changes under the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, Maryland’s reckless driving law focused on driving with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property. Previously, reckless driving could include behaviors such as excessive speeding, aggressive lane changes, tailgating, or running red lights. While these offenses were serious, most high-speed violations were treated as civil traffic infractions that resulted in fines, points on the driver’s license, or temporary license suspensions rather than criminal charges.
Jail time was rare and typically reserved for cases involving repeat offenders or accidents causing injury. The prior law left gaps in addressing extremely dangerous speeding and patterns of aggressive driving. Some drivers faced relatively minor consequences for behavior that posed substantial risks on Maryland roads. The new law now closes these gaps and increases penalties.
A 2023 incident that injured a police officer prompted the Maryland Legislature to review the state’s reckless driving laws. Governor Moore signed a bill imposing stricter penalties on drivers who exceed the speed limit by 30 mph or more.
Beginning October 1, 2025, driving 30 mph over the speed limit will automatically be classified as reckless driving and could result in jail time. The law also increases penalties for careless driving statewide, including:
Maryland wants to make the roads safer by reducing dangerous driving. If you receive reckless driving charges under this new law, you need to hire an attorney fast to figure out your options.
To effectively defend against reckless driving charges, hire an experienced traffic defense attorney who understands Maryland’s new Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act. Your lawyer will review the evidence, challenge how the officer measured your speed, and find any procedural errors. Supporting evidence, such as dashcam footage, GPS records, and witness testimony, can strengthen your case. If you had an emergency or were driving in poor road conditions, your attorney may be able to present that context to the judge.
Skilled attorneys often negotiate with prosecutors for lesser charges, such as negligent driving, or alternatives such as traffic school. Acting quickly and appearing at all your court dates gives you the best chance at a favorable outcome.
If you are facing reckless or aggressive driving charges in Maryland, you need an experienced lawyer to protect your rights. Attorneys at the Maryland Criminal Defense Law Group focus on traffic defense and help you deal with complex laws, including the new Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act. We review evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to minimize fines, points, and jail time. Do not risk your driving record. Call today for a free, confidential case evaluation.
