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Six counties in the State of Maryland, including Baltimore and 22 other jurisdictions, have implemented red-light camera programs that require violators to pay fines up to $100. All drivers within these jurisdictions who violate traffic signals and receive a ticket due to red-light cameras risk their vehicle registration being suspended if they fail to pay the ticket and the mandatory $30 administrative fee. In recent months, however, the Maryland General Assembly has approved legislation intended to help keep these drivers on the road after ticketing from red-light cameras and other minor traffic violations. Table of Contents Registration Suspension from Red-Light Violators is Largely Unused What Happens If I Drive a Vehicle with a Suspended Registration in Maryland? Contact an Experienced Baltimore Traffic Attorney for a Free Consultation on Your Traffic Violation Registration Suspension from Red-Light Violators is Largely Unused States around the country use red-light cameras to ticket drivers who violate traffic laws. However, while many states issue fines for running a red-light, Maryland is the only state to suspend drivers’ registrations when they fail to pay the ticket. As a result, Maryland’s House and Senate lawmakers have endorsed legislation to do away with this law. Delegate Al Carr, D-Montgomery, described this law as an example of the “criminalization of poverty.” He noted that suspending registration for minor traffic debt is a bad policy and an unnecessary rule – a rule that the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) does not like either. Carr explained during the bill hearing, “This provision is unneeded, and it is unused. The MVA doesn’t really want it. In the past three years, there have been zero registrations suspended for red-light camera debt.” Maryland law already prohibits drivers from renewing their vehicle registrations when they owe fines or fees for unpaid tickets. Considering that red-light tickets have not resulted in any registration suspensions in over three years, this rule is unnecessary. The legislation, Maryland Senate Bill 177/ House Bill 0046: Motor Vehicle Administration – Authority to Suspend Registration for Violations Recorded by Traffic Control Signal Monitoring Systems and Speed Monitoring Systems – Repeal, is set to go into effect on October 1, 2020. What Happens If I Drive a Vehicle with a Suspended Registration in Maryland? Having a valid vehicle registration is mandatory. Under Maryland law, all operable vehicles must be registered with the MVA. Anyone who is stopped by law enforcement for driving an unregistered car or allows another driver to operate their unregistered vehicle can be charged with a criminal misdemeanor that’s punishable with up to $500 in fines. Generally, however, most traffic citations for driving an unregistered vehicle are about $300. Suppose you are charged with a misdemeanor for driving without valid registration or allowing someone else to drive your unregistered vehicle. In that case, it’s crucial that you contact an experienced traffic attorney as soon as possible. Taking a preventive approach to your defense can help you defend yourself against avoidable negative consequences like fines and further restrictions on your driver’s license. Contact an Experienced Baltimore Traffic Attorney for a Free Consultation on Your Traffic Violation If you’re facing criminal charges from a traffic violation in Baltimore, an attorney like Hillel Traub will take care to ensure that you reach the best possible result in your traffic case. Like driving on a suspended registration, minor traffic violations can be the reason for long-term difficulties with your privilege to drive in Maryland, so it is essential to seek skilled representation. The Law Office of Hillel Traub is led by senior traffic attorney Hillel Traub who served as the former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA. He brings over 25 years of insight and experience in protecting the rights of his clients in Baltimore who face traffic offenses. To speak with him about your Maryland traffic offense, schedule a free consultation by completing a contact form or calling 410-352-7575.

With much of the state still on lockdown, there are fewer cars on the roads. Fewer cars on the roads means speeding is rampant among those who are driving to conduct essential business. Police officers in Maryland have flagged people traveling 100 miles per hour or more throughout the state, a significant speeding violation in a state with unique laws on speeding. According to the Maryland MVA, vehicle traffic in the state has decreased by approximately 45% due to Gov. Larry Hogan’s Stay-At-Home order limiting non-essential travel. What police officers throughout the state have observed is people taking advantage of empty roads to get their adrenaline rush. Table of Contents Police Officers are Cracking Down on Speeding Drivers are Taking Advantage of Reduced Traffic Enforcement Speeding Ticket Lawyer Dedicated to Preserving Driver’s Licenses in Baltimore Police Officers are Cracking Down on Speeding Sgt. Mike Lane of the Hartford County Sheriff’s Office has flagged people driving 85-100 or more miles per hour while on traffic duty. One woman caught speeding was traveling 110 miles per hour in a 45 mph zone, in what appeared to be a race against another car. She had her 3-year-old daughter in the backseat of her car. “The speeds some of you have been doing carry a huge fine. In some cases, the citation comes with a $160 fine and two points (on your driver’s license),” the Sgt. wrote in a Facebook post to warn drivers in the community. “And if you can’t afford the fine or lose your license because of too many points, it’ll be your fault, nobody else’s.” According to Sgt. Lane, the violation the woman allegedly committed would lead to a fine of $530 and 5 points on her license per Maryland’s driver’s license point system. Drivers are Taking Advantage of Reduced Traffic Enforcement Speeding is a serious offense in Maryland and could lead to the loss of a driver’s license. Most of the speeding that officers have witnessed occurred on Route 40 and 543. During the coronavirus pandemic, law enforcement officials have shifted their priorities and resources to conduct more essential duties during the lockdown. As this was taking place, the lack of traffic enforcement emboldened people to speed. Police officers reduced the number of traffic stops being conducted to limit their risk of contracting COVID-19. Today, police officers throughout Maryland have PPE or personal protective equipment, such as masks and medical gloves, and new methods of interacting with drivers so they can return to enforcing traffic laws like speeding without risking their health. With their new equipment and training, drivers can expect police officers in and near Baltimore to start handing out speeding tickets again. A speeding ticket in Baltimore can include a steep fine and several points against your driving record. To reduce the impact a speeding ticket can have on your reputation as a safe driver, contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub for legal counsel regarding traffic violations. Speeding Ticket Lawyer Dedicated to Preserving Driver’s Licenses in Baltimore As Maryland reopens, it’s back to business as usual for traffic enforcement. If you’ve been cited for speeding or another serious traffic violation in or near the City of Baltimore, discuss your case with attorney Hillel Traub. Hillel has vast 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. To discuss your traffic ticket for free, call (410) 352-7575 today or complete our contact form. We can help you fight back against any type of traffic violation in Baltimore and beyond.

With much of the state still on lockdown, there are fewer cars on the roads. Fewer cars on the roads means speeding is rampant among those who are driving to conduct essential business. Police officers in Maryland have flagged people traveling 100 miles per hour or more throughout the state, a significant speeding violation in a state with unique laws on speeding. According to the Maryland MVA, vehicle traffic in the state has decreased by approximately 45% due to Gov. Larry Hogan’s Stay-At-Home order limiting non-essential travel. What police officers throughout the state have observed is people taking advantage of empty roads to get their adrenaline rush. Table of Contents Police Officers are Cracking Down on Speeding Drivers are Taking Advantage of Reduced Traffic Enforcement Speeding Ticket Lawyer Dedicated to Preserving Driver’s Licenses in Baltimore Police Officers are Cracking Down on Speeding Sgt. Mike Lane of the Hartford County Sheriff’s Office has flagged people driving 85-100 or more miles per hour while on traffic duty. One woman caught speeding was traveling 110 miles per hour in a 45 mph zone, in what appeared to be a race against another car. She had her 3-year-old daughter in the backseat of her car. “The speeds some of you have been doing carry a huge fine. In some cases, the citation comes with a $160 fine and two points (on your driver’s license),” the Sgt. wrote in a Facebook post to warn drivers in the community. “And if you can’t afford the fine or lose your license because of too many points, it’ll be your fault, nobody else’s.” According to Sgt. Lane, the violation the woman allegedly committed would lead to a fine of $530 and 5 points on her license per Maryland’s driver’s license point system. Drivers are Taking Advantage of Reduced Traffic Enforcement Speeding is a serious offense in Maryland and could lead to the loss of a driver’s license. Most of the speeding that officers have witnessed occurred on Route 40 and 543. During the coronavirus pandemic, law enforcement officials have shifted their priorities and resources to conduct more essential duties during the lockdown. As this was taking place, the lack of traffic enforcement emboldened people to speed. Police officers reduced the number of traffic stops being conducted to limit their risk of contracting COVID-19. Today, police officers throughout Maryland have PPE or personal protective equipment, such as masks and medical gloves, and new methods of interacting with drivers so they can return to enforcing traffic laws like speeding without risking their health. With their new equipment and training, drivers can expect police officers in and near Baltimore to start handing out speeding tickets again. A speeding ticket in Baltimore can include a steep fine and several points against your driving record. To reduce the impact a speeding ticket can have on your reputation as a safe driver, contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub for legal counsel regarding traffic violations. Speeding Ticket Lawyer Dedicated to Preserving Driver’s Licenses in Baltimore As Maryland reopens, it’s back to business as usual for traffic enforcement. If you’ve been cited for speeding or another serious traffic violation in or near the City of Baltimore, discuss your case with attorney Hillel Traub. Hillel has vast 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. To discuss your traffic ticket for free, call (410) 352-7575 today or complete our contact form. We can help you fight back against any type of traffic violation in Baltimore and beyond.

Were you issued a Real ID by the state of Maryland? It turns out that some Real IDs may not be compliant with federal requirements due to a miscommunication between state and federal officials. If your license is confiscated by police at a traffic stop, here’s what you should know. What is a Real ID? Real ID is the federal security standard for identification cards. The federal government has established requirements for Real ID driver’s licenses or identification cards for all 50 states. These will be required to board commercial aircraft and get into federal offices. Without a compliant ID, your ID may not be accepted as valid identification. Table of Contents What is a Real ID? When Do I Need a Real ID in Maryland? Why Do I Need a Real ID? Maryland Police Officers Ordered to Confiscate Non-compliant Real IDs Baltimore Driver’s License Attorney Fights for You When Do I Need a Real ID in Maryland? All Maryland residents must have compliant identification by October 1, 2020. As of that date, non-compliant identification cards and licenses will not be accepted by federal authorities. You can identify a Real ID by the star in the upper right corner of the card. Without this, you will not be able to board a commercial flight, enter a federal building, or step onto a military base unless you have a valid passport or military ID. Why Do I Need a Real ID? The federal government began using Real ID as a way to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification and driver’s licenses after September 11, 2001. Eventually, if you don’t have a Real ID license, you will not be able to fly cross-country or do other basic things with your ID. Marylanders can make an appointment on the MDOT MVA site to get a compliant identification or driver’s license. Maryland Police Officers Ordered to Confiscate Non-compliant Real IDs Some Real IDs the State of Maryland marked as compliant do not meet federal regulations. The MVA is sending notices to thousands of drivers to alert them that their licenses might not be compliant and giving instructions on what documents they need to give the MVA to get a new license. To get non compliant IDs off the streets, the Maryland MVA has instructed police officers to confiscate them when they find them at traffic stops. This presents a problem for drivers, who are legally required to have driver’s licenses on them when they operate their cars. One Maryland lawmaker has proposed legislation to prevent the confiscation of non-compliant driver’s licenses by police. Eric Ebersole, a Delegate of District 12, is concerned that Maryland drivers will risk being cited for not having licenses, and hopes to establish ways of allowing police officers to crack down on non-compliant IDs while ensuring drivers can continue to drive legally. “If a law enforcement officer pulls somebody over, and they have a flagged license, they would like the officer to confiscate it. This is where the real problem is right now. The law says you have to carry a license. Somebody in that situation would have to consider whether they could drive away from the traffic stop or not.” Per Mr. Ebersole’s legislation, an officer conducting a traffic stop would still be allowed to confiscate non compliant driver’s licenses, but would also provide drivers with a document they would keep that allows them to drive while they work on meeting the Real ID requirements. Even if your ID or driver’s license has the new design, you might need to provide the MVA with additional documentation to be compliant. To get a Real ID you will need: ● One proof of identity and legal presence (like a U.S. Passport) ● Two proofs of state residency ● A social security card ● Current driver’s license ● Documents showing proof of name change if proof documents have different names Baltimore Driver’s License Attorney Fights for You Driver’s license issues can cause many problems and headaches, and unexpected expenses. If you find yourself facing driver’s license issues in or near Baltimore, talk to attorney Hillel Traub. Whether you’ve violated a traffic law or suspect that your license may be suspended in Maryland, Hillel Traub can help you settle your license issues. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he has the insider knowledge you need to succeed. Call (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.

Were you issued a Real ID by the state of Maryland? It turns out that some Real IDs may not be compliant with federal requirements due to a miscommunication between state and federal officials. If your license is confiscated by police at a traffic stop, here’s what you should know. What is a Real ID? Real ID is the federal security standard for identification cards. The federal government has established requirements for Real ID driver’s licenses or identification cards for all 50 states. These will be required to board commercial aircraft and get into federal offices. Without a compliant ID, your ID may not be accepted as valid identification. Table of Contents What is a Real ID? When Do I Need a Real ID in Maryland? Why Do I Need a Real ID? Maryland Police Officers Ordered to Confiscate Non-compliant Real IDs Baltimore Driver’s License Attorney Fights for You When Do I Need a Real ID in Maryland? All Maryland residents must have compliant identification by October 1, 2020. As of that date, non-compliant identification cards and licenses will not be accepted by federal authorities. You can identify a Real ID by the star in the upper right corner of the card. Without this, you will not be able to board a commercial flight, enter a federal building, or step onto a military base unless you have a valid passport or military ID. Why Do I Need a Real ID? The federal government began using Real ID as a way to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification and driver’s licenses after September 11, 2001. Eventually, if you don’t have a Real ID license, you will not be able to fly cross-country or do other basic things with your ID. Marylanders can make an appointment on the MDOT MVA site to get a compliant identification or driver’s license. Maryland Police Officers Ordered to Confiscate Non-compliant Real IDs Some Real IDs the State of Maryland marked as compliant do not meet federal regulations. The MVA is sending notices to thousands of drivers to alert them that their licenses might not be compliant and giving instructions on what documents they need to give the MVA to get a new license. To get non compliant IDs off the streets, the Maryland MVA has instructed police officers to confiscate them when they find them at traffic stops. This presents a problem for drivers, who are legally required to have driver’s licenses on them when they operate their cars. One Maryland lawmaker has proposed legislation to prevent the confiscation of non-compliant driver’s licenses by police. Eric Ebersole, a Delegate of District 12, is concerned that Maryland drivers will risk being cited for not having licenses, and hopes to establish ways of allowing police officers to crack down on non-compliant IDs while ensuring drivers can continue to drive legally. “If a law enforcement officer pulls somebody over, and they have a flagged license, they would like the officer to confiscate it. This is where the real problem is right now. The law says you have to carry a license. Somebody in that situation would have to consider whether they could drive away from the traffic stop or not.” Per Mr. Ebersole’s legislation, an officer conducting a traffic stop would still be allowed to confiscate non compliant driver’s licenses, but would also provide drivers with a document they would keep that allows them to drive while they work on meeting the Real ID requirements. Even if your ID or driver’s license has the new design, you might need to provide the MVA with additional documentation to be compliant. To get a Real ID you will need: ● One proof of identity and legal presence (like a U.S. Passport) ● Two proofs of state residency ● A social security card ● Current driver’s license ● Documents showing proof of name change if proof documents have different names Baltimore Driver’s License Attorney Fights for You Driver’s license issues can cause many problems and headaches, and unexpected expenses. If you find yourself facing driver’s license issues in or near Baltimore, talk to attorney Hillel Traub. Whether you’ve violated a traffic law or suspect that your license may be suspended in Maryland, Hillel Traub can help you settle your license issues. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he has the insider knowledge you need to succeed. Call (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.

Distracted driving causes approximately a quarter of all car crashes each year. According to the CDC, at least 9 people are killed because of a distracted driver while over 1,000 are injured per day in an accident involving a distracted driver. Distracted driving is understood as driving while doing another activity that takes your attention away from the road and increases the risk of being involved in or causing an accident. Using a cell phone to talk or text is among the most dangerous driver distractions. Across the country, most states have taken measures to ban texting and driving. In fact, just two states — Arizona and Montana — do not have a texting ban. In Maryland, all drivers are prevented from using a handheld device and texting. Currently, using a phone behind the wheel is a primary offense, and a person who is caught texting while driving can face a monetary fine; however, several lawmakers believe that the fine doesn’t go far enough. Table of Contents Maryland Seeks Stronger Penalties for Distracted Driving Not All Legislators on Board for House Bill 42 Fight your Ticket with a Baltimore Traffic Violations Lawyer Maryland Seeks Stronger Penalties for Distracted Driving For the third year in a row, Maryland lawmakers are considering a bill (House Bill 42) that would increase the penalties for texting while driving. Today, Maryland texting while driving laws rely on a tiered system to issue penalties: $75 for a first offense $125 for a second offense $175 for a third offense The Maryland House of Delegates has approved the bill by a narrow margin of 78-58. If the bill passes the Senate, judges would be able to use their discretion to issue fines of up to and including $500 for a first, second, or third offense texting while driving violation. Not All Legislators on Board for House Bill 42 House Bill 42 provoked mixed emotions from legislators of both political parties. Those who showed support for the increased fine believe that the current laws are failing to break drivers’ bad habits. Many claim that, despite the current fines, they continue to see drivers with mobile phones in their hands. Opponents of the bill believe that a $500 penalty is too costly for many Maryland residents. As such, they believe the penalty would unintentionally spark further legal issues for these residents who will not be able to pay the fine. Proponents counter the opposition by pointing out that judges would have wide discretion when deciding the final penalty. They would be able to evaluate the facts of the case to assess a fair punishment based on their findings. Many believe that the current system, which issues a fine of $175 for a third and subsequent offenses, is simply ineffective. Of all the states which have imposed driving while texting bans, Alaska has the most severe punishment: a fine of $500 for a first offense — down from a $10,000 penalty and up to 1 year in jail. Drivers in Louisiana also pay up to $500 for a first offense and up to $10,000 for a second offense. Some have noted that increased fines do not correlate to increased safety, but are happy that lawmakers are discussing the issue. Fight your Ticket with a Baltimore Traffic Violations Lawyer When you get pulled over for a traffic violation, you get more than a citation. If you pay the ticket, you will accumulate points against your driver’s license, which can add up and lead to further problems. The more points you accumulate, the closer you get to a license suspension. Break the cycle by retaining an experienced traffic attorney in Baltimore to resolve your violations. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub was a Maryland Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration before shifting his focus toward helping drivers avoid points and court fines. He has over 20 years of experience helping drivers resolve traffic violations and retain their license. Call 410-352-7575 or email us.

Distracted driving causes approximately a quarter of all car crashes each year. According to the CDC, at least 9 people are killed because of a distracted driver while over 1,000 are injured per day in an accident involving a distracted driver. Distracted driving is understood as driving while doing another activity that takes your attention away from the road and increases the risk of being involved in or causing an accident. Using a cell phone to talk or text is among the most dangerous driver distractions. Across the country, most states have taken measures to ban texting and driving. In fact, just two states — Arizona and Montana — do not have a texting ban. In Maryland, all drivers are prevented from using a handheld device and texting. Currently, using a phone behind the wheel is a primary offense, and a person who is caught texting while driving can face a monetary fine; however, several lawmakers believe that the fine doesn’t go far enough. Table of Contents Maryland Seeks Stronger Penalties for Distracted Driving Not All Legislators on Board for House Bill 42 Fight your Ticket with a Baltimore Traffic Violations Lawyer Maryland Seeks Stronger Penalties for Distracted Driving For the third year in a row, Maryland lawmakers are considering a bill (House Bill 42) that would increase the penalties for texting while driving. Today, Maryland texting while driving laws rely on a tiered system to issue penalties: $75 for a first offense $125 for a second offense $175 for a third offense The Maryland House of Delegates has approved the bill by a narrow margin of 78-58. If the bill passes the Senate, judges would be able to use their discretion to issue fines of up to and including $500 for a first, second, or third offense texting while driving violation. Not All Legislators on Board for House Bill 42 House Bill 42 provoked mixed emotions from legislators of both political parties. Those who showed support for the increased fine believe that the current laws are failing to break drivers’ bad habits. Many claim that, despite the current fines, they continue to see drivers with mobile phones in their hands. Opponents of the bill believe that a $500 penalty is too costly for many Maryland residents. As such, they believe the penalty would unintentionally spark further legal issues for these residents who will not be able to pay the fine. Proponents counter the opposition by pointing out that judges would have wide discretion when deciding the final penalty. They would be able to evaluate the facts of the case to assess a fair punishment based on their findings. Many believe that the current system, which issues a fine of $175 for a third and subsequent offenses, is simply ineffective. Of all the states which have imposed driving while texting bans, Alaska has the most severe punishment: a fine of $500 for a first offense — down from a $10,000 penalty and up to 1 year in jail. Drivers in Louisiana also pay up to $500 for a first offense and up to $10,000 for a second offense. Some have noted that increased fines do not correlate to increased safety, but are happy that lawmakers are discussing the issue. Fight your Ticket with a Baltimore Traffic Violations Lawyer When you get pulled over for a traffic violation, you get more than a citation. If you pay the ticket, you will accumulate points against your driver’s license, which can add up and lead to further problems. The more points you accumulate, the closer you get to a license suspension. Break the cycle by retaining an experienced traffic attorney in Baltimore to resolve your violations. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub was a Maryland Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration before shifting his focus toward helping drivers avoid points and court fines. He has over 20 years of experience helping drivers resolve traffic violations and retain their license. Call 410-352-7575 or email us.

The highway is a risky place for pedestrians, with cars blowing past at upwards of 80 miles per hour. According to a AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study, pedestrians who are hurt or killed on interstate highways make up 10% of all pedestrian fatalities each year in the United States. Many who are injured or killed work for emergency service teams that strive to save people’s lives. As such, there are laws throughout the country requiring drivers to give these responders more room to do their jobs. Maryland’s own “Move Over” Law requires drivers to change lanes to make room for police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel responding to car crashes. In October, the law expanded to include more types of service vehicles that drivers must make room for when they are on the side of the road. Table of Contents Maryland Drivers Must Move Over for Stopped Service Vehicles What Should I Do? Penalties for Violating the Move Over Law Call Hillel Traub to Fight Your Traffic Charge Maryland Drivers Must Move Over for Stopped Service Vehicles Move over laws force drivers to make more room for people working on the side of the road. In Maryland, violating the law is considered a primary offense that can result in points against your license and monetary fines. Originally, the law named police, firefighters, and EMT staff as those who must be protected; recently, more service vehicles and personnel were added to the list. As of October 2018, drivers in Maryland must move over a lane or reduce speed for: Transportation vehicles Service and utility vehicles Waste and recycling trucks with their flashers on The new law aims to protect more groups of people from becoming highway fatalities. What Should I Do? As a driver, all the law requires is for you to move over a lane away from the stopped vehicle when it is safe to do so. If there is no space to get into the adjacent lane, slow down to a reasonable speed that is safe for existing conditions as you pass the stopped vehicle or vehicles. Penalties for Violating the Move Over Law Drivers can face steep penalties for violating the law. A move over violation is a misdemeanor crime that can result in a fine of $110 and 1 point against your license upon a first offense. A person who violates the move over law and crashes will face a fine of $150 and 3 points against his license. If the violation results in a death or serious bodily injury, the driver will face a $750 fine. Call Hillel Traub to Fight Your Traffic Charge Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a seasoned traffic attorney who has helped Baltimore-area residents resolve legal issues for decades. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, he has the litigation experience you need to achieve a favorable outcome in your traffic case. Call (410) 352-7575 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.

The highway is a risky place for pedestrians, with cars blowing past at upwards of 80 miles per hour. According to a AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study, pedestrians who are hurt or killed on interstate highways make up 10% of all pedestrian fatalities each year in the United States. Many who are injured or killed work for emergency service teams that strive to save people’s lives. As such, there are laws throughout the country requiring drivers to give these responders more room to do their jobs. Maryland’s own “Move Over” Law requires drivers to change lanes to make room for police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel responding to car crashes. In October, the law expanded to include more types of service vehicles that drivers must make room for when they are on the side of the road. Table of Contents Maryland Drivers Must Move Over for Stopped Service Vehicles What Should I Do? Penalties for Violating the Move Over Law Call Hillel Traub to Fight Your Traffic Charge Maryland Drivers Must Move Over for Stopped Service Vehicles Move over laws force drivers to make more room for people working on the side of the road. In Maryland, violating the law is considered a primary offense that can result in points against your license and monetary fines. Originally, the law named police, firefighters, and EMT staff as those who must be protected; recently, more service vehicles and personnel were added to the list. As of October 2018, drivers in Maryland must move over a lane or reduce speed for: Transportation vehicles Service and utility vehicles Waste and recycling trucks with their flashers on The new law aims to protect more groups of people from becoming highway fatalities. What Should I Do? As a driver, all the law requires is for you to move over a lane away from the stopped vehicle when it is safe to do so. If there is no space to get into the adjacent lane, slow down to a reasonable speed that is safe for existing conditions as you pass the stopped vehicle or vehicles. Penalties for Violating the Move Over Law Drivers can face steep penalties for violating the law. A move over violation is a misdemeanor crime that can result in a fine of $110 and 1 point against your license upon a first offense. A person who violates the move over law and crashes will face a fine of $150 and 3 points against his license. If the violation results in a death or serious bodily injury, the driver will face a $750 fine. Call Hillel Traub to Fight Your Traffic Charge Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a seasoned traffic attorney who has helped Baltimore-area residents resolve legal issues for decades. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, he has the litigation experience you need to achieve a favorable outcome in your traffic case. Call (410) 352-7575 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.

Most people are familiar with common traffic offenses like speeding or running a stop sign. Typically, these moving violations result in a citation for which you may incur points against your driver’s license and a fine; however, some traffic offenses may double as criminal acts. If you have been charged with a more serious traffic offense, a traffic attorney in Baltimore like Hillel Traub will apply his expertise to your case to achieve the best possible result. Minor and Serious Traffic Infractions in Maryland A dedicated section for all traffic laws in the state rest within the Code of Maryland. There are many ways a person may unintentionally commit a crime while operating a motor vehicle. Criminal traffic charges may lead to unforeseen consequences such as incarceration and fines. In many cases, drivers may have their licenses suspended. An attorney dedicated to fighting traffic charges in Baltimore will make it a priority to preserve your driving privileges and mitigate the criminal consequences associated with the alleged offense. Table of Contents Minor and Serious Traffic Infractions in Maryland Minor Traffic Infractions Serious Traffic Infractions Fighting Minor and Serious Criminal Traffic Charges Minor Traffic Infractions Minor traffic infractions carry a penalty of jail time and a fine upon a conviction. Most minor traffic infractions in the state carry a possible penalty of up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. In some cases, a conviction for a more severe minor infraction may impose a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Examples of minor traffic infractions in Maryland include: Driving on a suspended or revoked license Driving under the influence Driving without a license Leaving the scene of an accident Minor traffic infractions are must-appear offenses for which a person must appear in court. It is not possible to pay a fine and forget the offense. If you have allegedly committed a minor traffic infraction, you may expect a notice in the mail listing the date and time on which you must appear in court. Serious Traffic Infractions Serious traffic infractions impose steeper penalties than misdemeanor infractions. Examples of serious traffic infractions in Maryland include: DUI that results in a fatality Automobile manslaughter Serious traffic infractions are must-appear offenses for which a suspect must appear in court. If you face charges for a serious traffic infraction in Baltimore, attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub will assist you in developing a strong case. A serious traffic infraction may lead to imprisonment and steep fines. You may have your license suspended or revoked, depending on the circumstances of your particular situation. Fighting Minor and Serious Criminal Traffic Charges You should contact a traffic violations lawyer as soon as possible, especially if it is your first criminal offense. Baltimore traffic attorney Hillel Traub has decades of experience fighting against serious traffic infractions throughout Maryland. He served as the Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA and dedicates his time to helping drivers resolve severe traffic violations. Allow Hillel Traub to thoroughly investigate the facts of your case to craft a strong defense that can help you avoid the worst consequences. Contact our office at (410) 352-7575 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.

Most people are familiar with common traffic offenses like speeding or running a stop sign. Typically, these moving violations result in a citation for which you may incur points against your driver’s license and a fine; however, some traffic offenses may double as criminal acts. If you have been charged with a more serious traffic offense, a traffic attorney in Baltimore like Hillel Traub will apply his expertise to your case to achieve the best possible result. Minor and Serious Traffic Infractions in Maryland A dedicated section for all traffic laws in the state rest within the Code of Maryland. There are many ways a person may unintentionally commit a crime while operating a motor vehicle. Criminal traffic charges may lead to unforeseen consequences such as incarceration and fines. In many cases, drivers may have their licenses suspended. An attorney dedicated to fighting traffic charges in Baltimore will make it a priority to preserve your driving privileges and mitigate the criminal consequences associated with the alleged offense. Table of Contents Minor and Serious Traffic Infractions in Maryland Minor Traffic Infractions Serious Traffic Infractions Fighting Minor and Serious Criminal Traffic Charges Minor Traffic Infractions Minor traffic infractions carry a penalty of jail time and a fine upon a conviction. Most minor traffic infractions in the state carry a possible penalty of up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. In some cases, a conviction for a more severe minor infraction may impose a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Examples of minor traffic infractions in Maryland include: Driving on a suspended or revoked license Driving under the influence Driving without a license Leaving the scene of an accident Minor traffic infractions are must-appear offenses for which a person must appear in court. It is not possible to pay a fine and forget the offense. If you have allegedly committed a minor traffic infraction, you may expect a notice in the mail listing the date and time on which you must appear in court. Serious Traffic Infractions Serious traffic infractions impose steeper penalties than misdemeanor infractions. Examples of serious traffic infractions in Maryland include: DUI that results in a fatality Automobile manslaughter Serious traffic infractions are must-appear offenses for which a suspect must appear in court. If you face charges for a serious traffic infraction in Baltimore, attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub will assist you in developing a strong case. A serious traffic infraction may lead to imprisonment and steep fines. You may have your license suspended or revoked, depending on the circumstances of your particular situation. Fighting Minor and Serious Criminal Traffic Charges You should contact a traffic violations lawyer as soon as possible, especially if it is your first criminal offense. Baltimore traffic attorney Hillel Traub has decades of experience fighting against serious traffic infractions throughout Maryland. He served as the Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA and dedicates his time to helping drivers resolve severe traffic violations. Allow Hillel Traub to thoroughly investigate the facts of your case to craft a strong defense that can help you avoid the worst consequences. Contact our office at (410) 352-7575 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.

Maryland is one of 26 states in the U.S. that have decriminalized marijuana. Because of that, residents have a certain amount of protection once unheard of when law enforcement suspects that a person is smoking it. That includes protection from unreasonable searches and seizures, even if the police find you in your car reeking of marijuana smoke. A unanimous decision last year by the state’s Court of Appeals determined that police violated a man’s Fourth Amendment rights when he was physically searched after police found him sitting in a vehicle smelling of marijuana. While the police were within their rights to search his vehicle, conducting a physical search of the man was illegal. The resulting cocaine that they discovered in the man’s pocket then became inadmissible in court, and police could not press charges for the narcotic possession or the intent to distribute. Table of Contents What are Maryland’s Laws on Marijuana? What is Probable Cause Relating to the Fourth Amendment? Four Categories of Probable Cause Contact Hillel Traub for Experienced Criminal Traffic Defense What are Maryland’s Laws on Marijuana? Maryland voted to decriminalize marijuana in 2014, making it a civil offense that’s punishable by a $100 fine for any possession under ten grams. Decriminalization means that first-time offenders using marijuana for personal consumption can’t get arrested, booked in jail, or given a criminal record. The decriminalized act is now treated as lightly as a minor traffic offense. In the case that resulted in violations to the man’s Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable and unfair searches and seizure, the Court of Appeals documents stated: “In the post-decriminalization era, the mere odor of marijuana coupled with possession of what is clearly less than ten grams of marijuana, absent other circumstances, does not grant officers probable cause to effectuate an arrest and conduct a search.” Possessing fewer than 10 grams of marijuana is not a crime in Maryland, so police officers did not have probable cause to search the man found sitting in a Chevrolet Trailblazer in an otherwise empty parking lot – despite the smell of “freshly burnt” marijuana in the air. Rather, the officers were only within their legal limit to search the vehicle. What is Probable Cause Relating to the Fourth Amendment? Probable cause is explained as a reasonable person’s belief that another person has, is, or will commit a crime. This belief that a person has or will commit a crime must be based on facts, not suspicion or a hunch. The court will determine if probable cause existed by examining whether a reasonably intelligent person would, under the same circumstances, believe that a crime was being committed. There must be substantial evidence to support probable cause before a police officer may conduct an arrest or “search and seizure.” In securing a search or arrest warrant with a judge, law enforcement officers must provide evidence to demonstrate probable cause. If a police officer makes an arrest or conducts a search without a warrant, he or she must prove probable cause to justify their actions. If they cannot establish probable cause, any evidence they found during the search may not be used in court. Four Categories of Probable Cause Probable cause fall into one of four categories: Observational Evidence: This is based on what a police officer hears, sees, and smells. For example, if an officer saw a person looking into car windows late at night while carrying a baseball bat, that would be probable cause to search the man. Circumstantial Evidence: When evidence has been gathered and all circumstances together imply that a crime has been committed, that is circumstantial evidence. Expertise: Police officers can use their knowledge and expertise to gather evidence of a crime. For example, an officer who can interpret gang graffiti can conclude that criminal activity had ensued. Informational Evidence: Receiving or hearing information, like through a confidential informant, is considered information that can be used. Sometimes, other proof must supplement evidence in one of these four categories. Circumstantial evidence, for example, may require additional sources of evidence to equate probable cause. Other times, the evidence is so strong that it can stand on its own, without supplemental proof. Contact Hillel Traub for Experienced Criminal Traffic Defense The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution was created to protect Americans from unlawful searches and seizures. It’s important to understand these rights, along with others, to protect yourself. In Maryland, merely smelling like marijuana is not enough probable cause to permit a search. If you were threatened in your vehicle and believe that your rights were violated in Maryland, contact Attorney Hillel Traub for legal help. The Law Office of Hillel Traub serves residents of Baltimore and surrounding areas by providing knowledgeable traffic defense with personal care to each case. With more than 20 years of experience challenging allegations of criminal wrongdoing, and as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, you can confide in Attorney Hillel Traub when seeking to resolve your criminal traffic matter. To schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options today, complete an online contact form or call at (410) 352-7575.