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Can You Ever Drive Above the Speed Limit in Maryland?

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Speeding is the most common traffic violation committed even by the most experienced drivers. Most motorists who’ve been pulled over for speeding assume they’re at fault and pay the fine. But what if they had a valid reason for speeding? Perhaps they had to do so for safety reasons or there was a medical emergency. Or maybe they just assumed that driving a few miles over the speed limit on the highway wasn’t actually against the law.

It’s important to understand Maryland’s specific laws, as rules vary from state to state. Here’s everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

Understanding Maryland’s Speeding Laws

Throughout the country, there are three different types of speed limits that can be enforced: absolute, presumed, and basic. Maryland enforces two of the three (basic and absolute). Here’s what you need to know:

  • Absolute speeding law: There’s no trick to how these limits work: If the sign says the maximum speed limit is 40 miles per hour and you drive 41 miles per hour or more, you’ve violated the law.
  • Basic speeding law: Basic speed laws state that no person can drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable, regardless of the posted speed limit. What a safe speed is will depend on the circumstances. For instance, 55 miles per hour might be safe on a bright, sunny day. But if it’s dark and the road is icy, going 55 miles per hour could be dangerous and a violation of the basic speeding law.

In other words, in the state of Maryland, even going one mile over the posted speed limit is against the law, no matter the circumstances. Likewise, amid dangerous conditions, you can also be charged for speeding if you’re going too fast, even if it’s slower than the posted speed limit.

How Can You Fight an “Absolute” Speeding Ticket in Maryland?

The absolute speeding law in Maryland is often difficult to contest. However, there are a few defenses that you and your attorney should consider. Here are a few:

  • Arguing the accuracy of the officer’s speed measurement: You can cast doubt on the police officer’s speed measurement or estimate if you can present enough evidence. For example, you can argue that the officer mistook your car for another car or their LIDAR reading wasn’t reliable because the device wasn’t properly calibrated.
  • Mistaken identity: If a police officer clocks a driver speeding and subsequently has to find them again in traffic, it’s possible they made a mistake and pulled the wrong car over.
  • Emergency situation: A driver may claim that an emergency caused them to break the speed limit in order to prevent injury or damage to themselves and others. This includes if the actions of the police forced you to speed, if you were being coerced, or if you were trapped.

Securing the help of an expert speeding ticket attorney in Maryland is the first step to a successful defense.

Contact an Experienced Traffic Attorney in Baltimore After a Traffic Offense

If you’ve been cited for speeding or another serious traffic violation in Maryland, discuss your case with The Law Office of Hillel Traub. Attorney Hillel has extensive experience working with people who are accused of traffic violations and has previously worked as an Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA. With his unique insight into the agency’s operations, he can make a strong case for you that may help you avoid the worst penalties of a traffic conviction.

Hillel has a proven track record of eliminating or reducing fines and penalties associated with traffic tickets, citations, and other violations. Our legal team is here to fight for your rights. To discuss your traffic ticket for free, call (410) 220-6976 today or complete our contact form.

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Always Get Same-Day Carfax Before Car Purchases in Maryland

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A Complete Guide to Maryland Car Insurance Laws After a Car Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the intricacies of car insurance laws in Maryland. Whether you are a seasoned driver or new to the roads of Baltimore, being informed about your rights and responsibilities can make a significant difference in how you handle the situation and protect your interests. Understanding Maryland's Car Insurance Requirements Maryland law mandates all drivers to carry a minimum level of car insurance. This includes: Bodily Injury Liability: At least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident. Property Damage Liability: At least $15,000 per accident. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Equal to the bodily injury and property damage liability minimums. Personal Injury Protection (PIP): A minimum of $2,500. These requirements are designed to ensure that drivers can cover the costs of injuries and damages resulting from an accident. Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Maryland Ensure Safety: First, check for injuries and move to a safe area if possible. Call 911 if there are any injuries or significant damage. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from all parties involved as well as witnesses. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Be honest and detailed about the incident. File a Police Report: Maryland law requires a police report for accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation can help document your condition after the accident. Navigating Insurance Claims Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they prioritize their interests over yours. Here are a few tips to protect yourself: Delay Recorded Statements: You are not required to give a recorded statement immediately. Consult with a personal injury attorney first. Evaluate Settlement Offers Carefully: Initial offers are often low. Consider all medical costs, lost wages, and long-term impacts before accepting a settlement. Choose Your Repair Shop: You have the right to select the repair shop of your choice, not just the insurer’s preferred option. Maryland's Comparative Fault Rule Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering damages. This makes it crucial to carefully document the accident and consult with legal professionals to protect your rights. Why Legal Assistance Matters The complexities of car insurance laws and claims processes can make it difficult to secure fair compensation. Engaging an experienced attorney can help you navigate these challenges effectively. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A., we specialize in helping Baltimore residents with car accident claims, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. Conclusion Understanding Maryland car insurance laws and taking the appropriate steps after an accident can significantly influence the outcome of your insurance claim. By being informed and proactive, you can better protect yourself and your financial interests. For personalized assistance and to ensure your rights are fully protected, contact us at The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every aspect of your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.