Before October 2025, going 30+ mph over the speed limit meant a big fine and higher insurance costs. A new Maryland law targets reckless and aggressive driving, allowing prosecutors to push for jail time for this type of speeding violation. Even though there is no mandatory sentence, you are risking jail time.
Attorney Seth Okin at Price Benowitz, LLP could help defend you from these charges.
Starting October 1, 2025, Maryland became tougher on dangerous driving due to the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act (Senate Bill 590). This new law came about after a 2023 traffic accident in which Montgomery County Police Sergeant Patrick Kepp was seriously injured by a driver going over 100 mph. The state is now cracking down harder on reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving through this new law. Here is what you need to know about the changes:
Going 30+ mph over the speed limit now counts as reckless driving and could result in up to 60 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, and six points on your license.
Driving carelessly in a way that endangers people or property could result in a fine of up to $750 and two points on your license.
Two or more violations during one trip (such as passing improperly, running signals, driving left of center) count as aggressive driving and could result in a fine of up to $1,000 and five points on your license.
The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act shows that the state takes dangerous driving very seriously. If you are caught driving recklessly or aggressively under the new law, you are looking at more than a ticket. You could face hefty fines, increased insurance rates for years, jail time, and enough points on your record to potentially lose your license altogether.
If you are facing any charges or just want to know where you stand with these upcoming changes, talk to a lawyer who knows the new traffic law inside and out.
Getting charged with reckless driving is not just about paying a fine—you could receive points on your license, higher insurance rates, and even jail time depending on the circumstances. An experienced traffic defense attorney knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case against you. They can negotiate deals you will never get on your own, such as reducing the reckless driving charge to careless driving, which means fewer points and less damage to your insurance.
Between complicated traffic laws and the length of time that a reckless driving conviction remains with you, having the support of someone who knows the system gives you the best chance at protecting your driving record and avoiding the worst consequences.
While the new Maryland law allows for the possibility of jail time for reckless or aggressive driving, it is not a certainty that you will be sentenced to prison for going 30+ mph over the speed limit. You may be able to defend against the charges or negotiate with the prosecutor. If you try to deal with the charges against you on your own, there is a higher chance that you may face the harshest possible sentence.
Every day you wait is a day closer to your court date under the new Maryland law that targets reckless and aggressive driving. Call defense attorney Seth Okin at Price Benowitz LLP today. The consultation will not cost you anything, and you will receive honest answers about what you are really facing and how to fight it. Contact the firm today to discuss your case.