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When you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, your heart sinks. You are being pulled over, and now you may be facing a traffic ticket. The points on your license start adding up in your mind, and you wonder what this means for your driving record and insurance rates. The Maryland license points system can be confusing, and understanding its nuances is vital to avoiding severe penalties and maintaining your driving privileges. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with traffic violations. With over 30 years of experience and a deep knowledge of Maryland traffic laws, Attorney Traub has helped countless drivers like you navigate the complexities of the state license points system. As a former lawyer for the MVA, Attorney Traub brings unique insights and a strong track record of defending clients against traffic violations. His goal is to provide you with clear guidance and effective representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Table of Contents What You Should Know About Maryland’s License Points System How to Reduce Points on Your Driver’s License in Maryland Contact a Skilled Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer Today What You Should Know About Maryland’s License Points System Maryland’s license points system is designed to monitor and penalize drivers for traffic violations. Points are assigned to your driving record for various infractions, and accumulating too many points can lead to severe consequences, including increased insurance rates, fines, and even license suspension. The system used to define how many points are assigned to each traffic violation can be found here. However, the most common traffic violations and their assigned points are as follows: Speeding: 1 to 5 points, depending on the severity. Reckless Driving: 6 points. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): 12 points. Driving with a Suspended License: 12 points. When you accumulate points on your driving record, the MVA takes notice. Accumulating 8 to 11 points can result in a suspension of your license, while 12 or more points can lead to a revocation. Additionally, having points on your record can significantly increase your auto insurance premiums, making it more expensive to maintain your vehicle. How to Reduce Points on Your Driver’s License in Maryland Maryland offers options to reduce the points on your driver’s license, such as attending a driver improvement program or waiting for points to expire over time. These programs can provide valuable education and help you avoid future violations. Unfortunately, navigating the MVA hearing process can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with Maryland’s traffic laws. A traffic violations lawyer can provide essential support by representing you and your interests at the hearing. An attorney can also present invaluable evidence and make legal arguments on your behalf. This can increase your chances of a favorable outcome, potentially reducing or eliminating the points on your license and preserving your driving privileges. Contact a Skilled Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer Today At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we understand how stressful and confusing traffic violations can be. With over 30 years of experience and a history as a former lawyer for the MVA, Attorney Traub brings unique insights into Maryland traffic laws and a strong track record of defending clients. Our goal is to provide clear guidance and effective representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome. If you’re facing traffic violations in Maryland, understanding the license points system is crucial. By working with The Law Office of Hillel Traub, you can navigate the complexities of the MVA hearing process with confidence. Contact us today at (410) 352-7575 or visit our contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you protect your driving record and minimize the impact of traffic violations on your life.

Traffic violations are a concern for any driver, but for Maryland school bus drivers, they carry even higher stakes. With stringent regulations in place for the safety of students, a single violation can have serious consequences. Fortunately, many of these citations can be fought with the right knowledge and legal support, offering drivers a chance to clear their records. With decades of experience representing CDL drivers across Maryland, The Law Office of Hillel Traub understands the unique challenges school bus drivers face when accused of traffic violations. Attorney Hillel Traub, a former lawyer for the MVA, uses his extensive knowledge of Maryland traffic laws to help clients navigate the complexities of these cases. Whether addressing speeding tickets, stop sign violations, or other charges, we work to protect your driving record and livelihood. Table of Contents Common Traffic Violations School Bus Drivers Face Improper Lane Usage Speeding Violations Failure to Yield Running Stop Signs or Red Lights Failure to Activate Warning Signals Overloading the Bus Why Contesting a Traffic Violation Matters for School Bus Drivers Protect Your CDL with The Law Office of Hillel Traub Common Traffic Violations School Bus Drivers Face School bus drivers are vital to ensuring students’ safety, and they are held to rigorous traffic standards. For Maryland school bus drivers, even a minor citation can jeopardize their commercial driver’s license and, by extension, their livelihood. Some common traffic violations include: Improper Lane Usage Navigating a large school bus on narrow or congested roads can be challenging, and drivers may sometimes be cited for improper lane usage. This could include failing to stay within lane markings or making wide turns. To challenge this violation, drivers can provide evidence of extenuating circumstances, such as road construction or hazardous conditions, that necessitated their actions. Clear documentation and a strong defense may lead to reduced penalties or dismissal of the ticket. Speeding Violations Maintaining appropriate speeds is crucial for school bus drivers, but occasional speeding tickets can occur. In some cases, these tickets may be based on radar errors, misinterpreted speed limits, or faulty equipment. Drivers can contest speeding violations by requesting calibration records for the radar equipment used or presenting evidence of incorrect signage. An attorney may also argue that the ticketing officer lacked a clear line of sight to accurately measure speed. Failure to Yield School bus drivers are required to adhere to strict rules about yielding to other vehicles and pedestrians, particularly at intersections or when merging onto highways. Misjudging the timing of a turn or merge can result in a citation for failure to yield. To challenge this violation, drivers may present evidence that other vehicles were driving aggressively, failed to signal, or otherwise created unsafe conditions that influenced their actions. Testimonies from witnesses or dashcam footage can also support a defense. Running Stop Signs or Red Lights School bus drivers are expected to comply with all traffic signals, but miscommunication or mechanical issues can cause citations for running stop signs or red lights. Poor visibility in adverse weather conditions or malfunctioning traffic lights could also contribute to the incident. Drivers can defend themselves by presenting evidence of poor visibility, malfunctioning signals, or other mitigating factors that made compliance difficult or unsafe. Failure to Activate Warning Signals School buses are equipped with flashing lights and stoparms to alert other drivers when students are boarding or exiting. Failure to activate these signals properly can lead to serious violations. However, this issue can sometimes stem from equipment failure rather than driver negligence. If cited for this violation, drivers can demonstrate that the bus’s warning systems were defective or not functioning correctly. Maintenance records and mechanic reports can support this defense. Overloading the Bus School bus drivers must adhere to strict passenger limits to ensure safety. Violations can occur when the number of passengers exceeds the bus’s capacity, even if the driver is not at fault for the overloading. Drivers can contest this citation by presenting evidence that school administrators or supervisors directed the overloading or that the count was misreported. Proper documentation can clarify the situation and help reduce penalties. Why Contesting a Traffic Violation Matters for School Bus Drivers Traffic violations are more than just an inconvenience for school bus drivers—they can lead to CDL suspension or disqualification. Without a valid CDL, drivers cannot legally operate school buses, putting their jobs at risk. Additionally, a tarnished driving record can impact future employment opportunities. By fighting unjust citations, drivers can avoid these consequences, protect their licenses, and maintain their livelihood. Contesting a ticket also reinforces the importance of fair treatment and due process, ensuring drivers are not penalized for issues beyond their control. An experienced attorney can analyze the circumstances surrounding the violation and build a defense tailored to the driver’s situation. This might involve reviewing police reports, gathering witness statements, or challenging the evidence presented by law enforcement. An attorney may negotiate reduced penalties even if a violation cannot be entirely dismissed. This could include lower fines, fewer points on the driver’s record, or ammending the charge to something that doesn’t threaten your CDL. These outcomes can significantly minimize the impact on a driver’s CDL and career. Protect Your CDL with The Law Office of Hillel Traub For Maryland school bus drivers, traffic violations can jeopardize your CDL and livelihood, making a strong defense essential. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we have decades of experience defending CDL drivers against improper lane usage, speeding violations, failure to yield, and other traffic citations. As a former lawyer for the MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub brings unique insight into Maryland’s traffic laws to advocate for your rights and help preserve your driving record. Whether you’re facing charges stemming from equipment failure, hazardous road conditions, or other factors, we work diligently to minimize penalties and protect your career. Call us today at (410) 352-7575 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.

After receiving a traffic ticket, most drivers pay it immediately, even if they’re innocent. A lengthy and expensive trial typically dissuades people from fighting their fines. However, this is not a good idea; it is an admission of guilt and can cost you hundreds of dollars and points to your license, which may impact your ability to drive in the future. While it will be hard to represent yourself, a Maryland traffic offense attorney can help challenge your citation and improve the outcome. Payable Traffic Violations in Maryland Maryland has countless types of payable traffic violations, but the most common is speeding. One misconception is that you’re only speeding when you go more than 10 miles over the limit but going even one mile over is still speeding. The most severe penalties may include fines in the hundreds of dollars and up to five points on your driver’s license. Table of Contents Payable Traffic Violations in Maryland Why You Should Fight Citations for Traffic Violations A Judge May Dismiss or Reduce the Charge Seek Legal Representation from a Skilled Traffic Violation Attorney Reckless driving: The maximum fine for reckless driving is $1,000 and six points on your driving record. Failure to obey a traffic device: A “traffic device” is a vague term, as it can be a traffic sign or light. Penalties include fines and up to one point on your license. However, if a collision occurs, you may receive up to three points. Failure to control speed: Drivers must control their speed to avoid crashing into another vehicle or hitting pedestrians or other road users. Those who fail to maintain a safe speed may receive a fine of up to $130 fine and up to three license points. Failure to yield: You can fail to yield to both drivers and pedestrians. Ticket violations can result in a fine of up to $500 or one point on your license. Why You Should Fight Citations for Traffic Violations There are two main reasons why you should fight your traffic violation. Tickets are expensive, and you face the possibility of points on your driving record. Most tickets don’t exceed $1,000, but that’s still a lot of money that can be better spent elsewhere. You can use it for rent or necessities, pay down your credit card debt, or spend it on new work clothes. The point is, you shouldn’t have to pay the fine if you’re innocent. The more points you accumulate on your license, the higher your chances are of temporarily or permanently losing your license. Additionally, points are a red flag to all insurance carriers, which means your rates could increase. A Judge May Dismiss or Reduce the Charge Once you pay the ticket, there’s no going back. A court official will enter a guilty verdict into their system, and you may be subject to additional penalties through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Depending on the circumstances surrounding the ticket, a judge may reduce your fine or drop the ticket altogether. So, it’s always a good idea to take the case to trial. Seek Legal Representation from a Skilled Traffic Violation Attorney Attorney Hillel Traub has helped countless clients fight traffic tickets and will bring over 20 years of experience to your case. As the founding lawyer for the Law Office of Hillel Traub, a boutique firm, Hillel is dedicated to providing top-tier representation for each and every case. You can be confident that he will do everything in his power to obtain a favorable outcome. Don’t be caught with the consequences of a traffic violation on your record. To schedule a free consultation, call (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form.

After a DUI arrest, you might find that loved ones want to give you advice on how to tackle your case; however, the only counsel you should consider is from a Maryland DUI attorney. Although it might sound like you could save money by representing yourself, investing in a competent defense lawyer will be extremely beneficial long-term. With the right attorney on your side, you might be able to avoid the worst possible penalties after your first, second, or subsequent DUI arrest in Maryland and secure your freedom. Your Future Is at Stake In Maryland, you are not able to expunge a DUI conviction. Having a criminal charge on your record can impact your chances of finding a job or obtaining an apartment. A DUI can also lead to increased car insurance rates, and you may even lose your driving privilege for a set period. With the right Maryland DUI defense lawyer’s help, you have a better chance at securing your future. Table of Contents Your Future Is at Stake Public Defenders Are Extremely Busy Attorneys Will Give You Guidance on How to Plead They Will Represent You in Court Negotiate Punishments and Obtain Plea Bargains Contact a Skilled DUI Attorney in Maryland Public Defenders Are Extremely Busy Public defenders are an option when you really cannot afford a DUI attorney. But the sad truth is that most of them are overloaded with cases, and they may not be able to invest enough time into your particular matter. If you hire an attorney, they will take the extra time to investigate your case and learn more about it. They may gather more evidence that can help you succeed in court. Paying more up front for private counsel will help you avoid further complications down the road. Additionally, most attorneys offer a free consultation, so you may take advantage of that to help you decide the best course of action. Attorneys Will Give You Guidance on How to Plead When you’re accused of driving under the influence, you have the choice to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Most people have never gone through this process before, so they may not know which plea is best for their case. Your attorney can educate you on the different possible outcomes for each type of plea. For example, if you have witnesses to prove you weren’t drinking and driving, it may be enough to dispute the charge, and they might recommend that you plead not guilty. They Will Represent You in Court If you plead not guilty, a trial may be scheduled for your case. While you legally can represent yourself, it’s almost never a good idea. It takes years to master trial procedures, and judges often have little patience for self-represented defendants who don’t know court rules. You can expect Maryland prosecutors to be aggressive with these charges. A lack of legal knowledge and trial skills will put you at a disadvantage in court. An experienced trial lawyer, like Hillel Traub, understands the procedure required to represent you in court. To protect your best interests, it’s best to hire a trial attorney. Negotiate Punishments and Obtain Plea Bargains When a judge convicts you of a DUI, they also assign your punishment. This may include serving time in jail, paying a fine, or completing community service . Often, it will consist of a combination of more than one punishment. However, an attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the sentence. In other cases, an attorney may argue to change the conviction to a moving traffic violation rather than a DUI. Contact a Skilled DUI Attorney in Maryland The Law Office of Hillel Traub can tailor a case for each of its clients. When you partner with us, you can expect the personal attention you need when facing criminal charges. By being more selective about the cases we handle, our law firm can provide better results for clients. If you are facing a DUI charge, hiring an attorney will pay off in the long run. Attorney Hillel Traub is committed to fighting for his clients’ rights and freedoms. With over 20 years of experience, Attorney Hillel is the only choice in Maryland for DUI representation. Call (410) 352-7575 or complete a contact form to schedule a free consultation.

A charge of driving while license suspended is a serious traffic offense. The key to facing criminal charges, however, is to have knowledge that your license was suspended when police pulled you over. Knowledge can come from a letter from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration announcing the suspension of your license or you may know your license is suspended due to a prior conviction. If you are concerned about charges for driving on a suspended license, work with a Baltimore suspended license lawyer to fight the suspension and help you avoid the worst penalties. An experienced attorney will do whatever it takes to preserve your driver’s license and reputation. Table of Contents You Can Go to Jail for Driving on a Suspended License Driving is a Privilege, Not a Right You Can Expect Points Against your License for a DWLS Conviction Fighting DWLS Charges in Maryland You Can Go to Jail for Driving on a Suspended License In the state of Maryland, drivers who are convicted on a charge of driving while license suspended may end up in jail for a period of up to 60 days. They may also face steep fines and points against their license. The accumulation of points can lead to lengthier periods of suspension or license revocation. Driving is a Privilege, Not a Right Some people mistakenly believe they have the right to drive a vehicle. This is not the case in Maryland. The Courts have defined that obtaining a driver’s license is a privilege in State vs. Sullivan (407 Md. 493). You Can Expect Points Against your License for a DWLS Conviction If you are charged with DWLS you may experience one of several outcomes. Your case may be dismissed, you may be acquitted of the charges, found guilty, found not guilty, or you may be placed on probation. If you are found guilty of DWLS, the Court will notify the MVA, which will assess points to your record. From there, you may face several outcomes depending on how many points you have accumulated in a two-year period There are Different Charges for Driving on a Suspended License In Maryland, you may be charged one of several ways for driving with a suspended license: Driving on a suspended license “H” Driving on a suspended license “C” The “H” charge of DWLS is the less severe charge of the two possible charges for driving with a suspended license in Maryland. With an H charge, you can receive 3 points against your license, a sentence of up to 60 days in jail, and a fine of up to $500. With a “C” charge of DWLS, you can receive 12 points against your license, a sentence of up to one year in jail, and a fine of up to $1,000. Fighting DWLS Charges in Maryland Talk to an attorney to understand the charge against you and fight to protect your driver’s license. Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has over 25 years of experience fighting traffic charges in Baltimore and surrounding areas and has served as the former Assistant Attorney General for the MVA. His goal is to help you eliminate the license suspension charge from your record so you can continue to live your life. Contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub for a free consultation by calling (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form.

Drunk driving accidents are among the most preventable crashes, and unfortunately, they cause thousands of needless deaths each year. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 30 people die every day in a crash where alcohol was found to be a factor. To do its part to reduce the number of DUI fatalities, the State of Maryland is committed to keeping repeat drunk drivers off the roads. Recently, the State enhanced penalties for drivers convicted of driving under the influence. Those with prior DUI convictions, people convicted of DUI with a minor in the vehicle, and drivers convicted of vehicular homicide may now face extended sentences. Anyone with a DUI charge in Maryland is urged to contact a criminal traffic lawyer who fights DUI in Baltimore and surrounding areas. Table of Contents What New DUI Laws Should I Know About in Maryland? What are Maryland’s Penalties for a First DUI Conviction? How Can I Fight a DUI Charge in Baltimore? What New DUI Laws Should I Know About in Maryland? DUI is a serious traffic offense in Maryland. A DUI that results in the death of another person may result in a charge of vehicular homicide. If you’re driving under the influence of alcohol and you cause a car accident that results in a fatality, the Repeat Drunk Driving Offenders Act (HB 707) increases your potential maximum jail time from 3 years to 5 years. The law went into effect on October 1, 2019. The State of Maryland is making an enormous effort to crack down on repeat offenders. Statistics from AAA show that a person with a prior conviction has a much higher chance — 4.1 times higher — of being involved in a crash that leads to death while under the influence. Additionally, AAA’s Mid-Atlantic Manager of Public and Government Affairs, John Townsend, claims that one-third of all auto crash fatalities in the U.S and Washington D.C. involve drunk drivers. If you have a previous DUI conviction and your drunk driving causes a fatality, the maximum time you could face in prison doubled from 5 to 10 years. Heavier penalties are also in store for drivers who are convicted of traveling with a minor while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Now, a conviction may lead to one year in jail for a first offense and two years for a second offense for transporting a person under 18 years old. What are Maryland’s Penalties for a First DUI Conviction? Serious traffic offenses like driving under the influence can cause tragedy. Not only could you hurt yourself or others, but if you’re convicted of DUI your life as you know it will change drastically. A DUI conviction can’t be expunged in Maryland, which is why it’s crucial to fight the charge as soon as possible after being arrested. DUI is a very serious charge, even if it’s your first time. A first DUI conviction could lead to: Incarceration of up to 1 year in jail A fine of up to $1,000 plus court fees License suspension Community service The court may also require you to attend alcohol education or substance abuse programs How Can I Fight a DUI Charge in Baltimore? The best way to avoid a DUI conviction and becoming a repeat DUI offender is to err on the side of caution any time you might have the option of driving after drinking. Choose a friend to be your designated driver for the evening, spend the night at a friend’s house, or request a ride from apps like Uber and Lyft. When all else fails, and you face a DUI charge, you can turn to an experienced DUI lawyer like Hillel Traub for help. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has extensive experience fighting DUI charges and working with the Maryland MVA to preserve his clients’ driver’s licenses. After a thriving career as an Assistant Attorney General for the MVA, he now works for the citizens of Baltimore and surrounding areas, providing competent and personal representation for DUI offenders. Call (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form for a free case review.

Facing DUI charges can have severe consequences, affecting one’s driving privileges, employment prospects, and personal reputation. In DUI cases, the court often requires individuals to undergo an assessment administered by a qualified professional to evaluate their alcohol consumption patterns and associated risk levels. A skilled DUI lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub can attempt to mitigate the severity of the charges and consequences you face by ordering an alcohol assessment, which ultimately determines whether this behavior was a one-off occurrence or indicative of deeper issues, like a dependency on substances. That information helps determine whether rehabilitation might be more helpful than incarceration. If you have been arrested for a DUI charge, speak with us to understand your best legal options. Table of Contents Understanding a DUI Alcohol Assessment Importance of an Alcohol Assessment in a DUI Case Contact the DUI Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub Understanding a DUI Alcohol Assessment In a Maryland DUI assessment, an evaluator looks at the Drug Abuse Screening Test Scoring System in a Substance Abuse Evaluation using certain evaluation materials to assess any substance abuse in more depth. This enables an evaluator to obtain a comprehensive view of an individual, their history of abuse, and their lifestyle. When presenting the assessment information to the court, the evaluator can show an individual’s progress. The judge will then be able to understand the situation and the individual on a deeper level. This may inform sentencing, such as whether the individual qualifies for unsupervised probation or must attend a treatment program or education classes. Regardless of the conclusions reached in the assessment, evaluators are only interested in the type of sentencing that would be most beneficial to the offender, such as suggesting an Alcohol and Drug Program or more substantive aftercare. To understand whether an alcohol assessment is beneficial to your case, speak with an experienced lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub. Importance of an Alcohol Assessment in a DUI Case If you have been charged with a DUI, an alcohol assessment may be imperative to your case, as it can lessen the penalties you face during sentencing. It is important to proceed with an assessment for the following reasons: You may earn a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ): In some jurisdictions, you may not earn a PBJ, even if you have no prior offenses, as some judges are of the opinion that you must earn a PBJ by completing an alcohol treatment or education program. Provides peace of mind for the judge: If a judge notices that you have been evaluated by a professional, they do not have to decide what type of treatment or supervision would be most beneficial. Generally, a judge will follow the professional’s recommendation and be at ease knowing they are not taking a risk by offering lighter sentencing. Shows initiative: Moving forward with an alcohol assessment shows you care about your case and you are taking the matter seriously. In the long run, it may help you avoid harsh penalties if you show that you are attempting to learn from your mistakes. You may earn unsupervised probation: If the results of the assessment indicate you do not have an alcohol use issue and it was an isolated incident, your DUI lawyer may argue you do not need to be supervised during your probation. You may avoid jail time: Generally, judges have compassion for individuals who recognize they have problems with alcohol and are taking steps to better themselves. As such, if you are enrolled in an inpatient program, you may avoid jail time. An alcohol assessment can significantly influence the court’s decisions when determining appropriate penalties, such as fines, probation terms, or participation in alcohol programs. Working with an experienced Maryland DUI lawyer can help increase your likelihood of a favorable outcome. Contact the DUI Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub By taking an alcohol assessment seriously and following the recommended treatment, individuals facing DUI charges can demonstrate a commitment to addressing alcohol-related behavior, potentially leading to lighter sentencing. Working with Attorney Hillel Traub at The Law Office of Hillel Traub enables you to navigate the complexity of your case and work towards a favorable resolution. As a former lawyer of the MVA with over 30 years of experience, he knows how to protect your rights. Contact us today by calling (410) 352-7575 or filling out our contact form.

Compared with some of life’s more challenging obstacles, traffic tickets might not seem all that important at first. Unfortunately, accumulating and even paying tickets can lead to points against your license that smear your reputation as a safe driver and can ultimately lead to the suspension or revocation of your Maryland driver’s license. As points on your license add up, you inch closer to a license suspension. All it takes is eight (8) points in a two-year period to make that happen. Twelve (12) points in a two-year period leads to a license revocation, which is the complete and permanent cancelation of your driver’s license. There are many types of violations for which you may receive a citation — and thus, points — if you’re found guilty of the offense. Table of Contents Why Driver’s License Points Matter Getting a Letter from the MVA Which offenses carry the most points? Fight Your Costly Traffic Tickets Today Not all traffic violations are created equally. There are some offenses worth zero points while others can add 12 points to your license! Understanding which offenses carry the most weight can help you make better decisions when the time comes to fight the charges against you with the help of a Baltimore traffic attorney. Why Driver’s License Points Matter Points against your license can cost you in the form of jeopardizing your driving privileges and increasing your car insurance payments. The more serious the violation, the more points you can expect the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will add to your license. While insurance companies are only concerned with infractions that increase the risk of an accident, which cost them in the form of paying claims, the State of Maryland assigns points to discourage dangerous behavior behind the wheel. Getting a Letter from the MVA If you’re surprised to receive mail from the MVA, don’t hesitate to contact a traffic defense lawyer to help you settle the matter without collecting points. There are dozens of traffic violations for which you may incur points. It takes just three (3) points to receive a Warning Letter from the MVA alerting you that you’re on their radar. The MVA may contact you for five (5) points requesting that you enroll in a mandatory Driver Improvement Program (DIP). At 8 or more points your license is at serious risk of being suspended or revoked, and you’re urged to contact a lawyer. Which offenses carry the most points? Fines typically accompany traffic tickets; however, the amount of the fine varies from place to place. Some of the costliest violations in terms of how many points you can accrue are: 12-Point Violations Any felony involving the use of a vehicle Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer Failing to stop and render aid after an accident resulted in bodily injury or death Driving on a suspended or revoked license DUI Homicide or assault committed with a vehicle License fraud Failing or refusing to surrender a canceled, revoked, or suspended license 8-Point Violations Turning off car lights to avoid identification Failing to stop after an accident results in damage to an attended or unattended vehicle or property 5 -Point Violations Failure to report a motor vehicle accident that the law requires to be reported Driving a motor vehicle on the highway without a license Knowingly allowing an unlicensed driver to drive your car Driving an uninsured vehicle Speeding at 40 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit Driving at 85 mph in a 65 mph zone Drag racing Fight Your Costly Traffic Tickets Today No matter what traffic offense you face, attorney Hillel Traub is on your side. As the founder of The Law Office of Hillel Traub, he has more than 20 years of experience defending traffic cases in Baltimore and surrounding areas. Having served as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he has unique knowledge about the organization’s inner workings that may benefit your case. Hillel Traub has exceptional reviews on Avvo, Facebook, and Yelp. Call (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form to see how he can help you keep your license.

Operating a commercial vehicle requires specialized skills and an adherence to stringent standards, far exceeding those for other vehicle drivers. In Maryland, commercial drivers are regulated by rigorous Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules. These rules outline numerous traffic infractions that can bar someone from commercial driving. If you lost your CDL license due to a violation, you must wait for your disqualification period to end, pay any outstanding fees, submit the required paperwork, and clear any other suspensions or revocations. The Law Office of Hillel Traub works closely with CDL holders to guide them through the complexities of CDL disqualifications and satisfying court requirements to get them back on the road. With a focus on personalized legal strategies, Attorney Hillel Traub aims to avoid or mitigate such disqualifications, informed by an in-depth understanding of the specific traffic violations that threaten commercial driving careers. If you are navigating the repercussions of a CDL violation, working with Attorney Hillel Traub can be pivotal in retaining your commercial driving privileges. Table of Contents Violations That May Disqualify a CDL Driver 5 Steps to Take to Get Your CDL License Back in Maryland Contact a CDL Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub Violations That May Disqualify a CDL Driver Serious traffic violations involving commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) in Maryland can lead to the suspension of your CDL. It can also lead to significant legal penalties, including jail time and large fines. These violations include: Exceeding speed limits by 15 mph or more Reckless driving Tailgating Unsafe or unpredictable lane changes Driving under the influence (DUI) Fleeing the scene of an accident Driving without the necessary insurance Operating or towing a vehicle that requires a CDL with a suspended or revoked CDL Without legal representation, you risk losing your CDL temporarily or permanently. Even minor offenses, such as not wearing a seatbelt or slightly exceeding the speed limit, can accumulate points on your driver’s license. For example, accumulating the following amount of points can lead to: 5-7 points in 2 years results in a mandatory driver improvement course and Point Systems Conference 8-11 points in 2 years results in driver’s license suspension 12 points in any timeframe results in license suspension With over 30 years of experience and a track record of success, Attorney Hillel Traub has helped countless Maryland drivers protect their commercial vehicle licenses. 5 Steps to Take to Get Your CDL License Back in Maryland The process and costs for reinstating a Maryland CDL depend on the nature of the offense. For a disqualification period of less than one year, you must: Complete the duration of your disqualification. Pay the necessary reinstatement fees. Provide any documents that are required. Resolve any other suspensions or revocations if they exist. Fulfill any court-mandated requirements, if applicable. For disqualifications lasting one year or longer, you must also successfully pass the CDL knowledge and driving skills tests in addition to the steps above to reinstate your license. Contact a CDL Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub If you are facing a traffic violation in Maryland that has resulted in the loss or the inability to obtain a CDL license, speaking with a skilled traffic violations lawyer can be pivotal in regaining your CDL. With more than 30 years of experience in assisting commercial drivers in Maryland maintain their CDLs, attorney Hillel Traub from The Law Office of Hillel Traub is uniquely qualified for such cases. He has worked as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Motor Vehicle Administration, equipping him with specialized knowledge to fight for your driving privileges. For a complimentary consultation, call (410) 352-7575 or fill out our contact form.

Baltimore is a bustling city of over 600,000, however, it is not known for reliable public transportation. Hundreds of thousands of drivers in the Baltimore metro area depend on their cars and valid Maryland driver’s licenses to get around. Without access to a vehicle, many people would find it difficult to get to school or hold down their jobs, and generally live their day-to-day lives. The freedom to come and go as you please can be stripped from you in an instant through a Maryland driver’s license suspension. Your license may be suspended for a variety of reasons. It is up to you to get to the root of the problem and fight back through the assistance of a suspended license lawyer. Table of Contents REASONS FOR A MARYLAND DRIVER LICENSE SUSPENSION WHAT TO DO AFTER LOSING YOUR MARYLAND DRIVER’S LICENSE YOUR LICENSE IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WHAT TO DO AFTER GETTING YOUR LICENSE SUSPENDED IN MARYLAND Can you get car insurance if your license is suspended? How do I get my license back after suspension? REASONS FOR A MARYLAND DRIVER LICENSE SUSPENSION The State of Maryland may choose to deny a person the privilege of driving for several reasons. Most of the time, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) suspends driver’s licenses due to driving-related matters; however, some actions that have little to do with safely operating a vehicle can trigger a license suspension. Maryland drivers may lose their driver’s licenses for any of the following reasons. If a driver has already had his license suspended and drives anyway, the state can add more time to their suspension period. Having multiple unresolved traffic tickets Accumulating too many points on your driver’s license (a minimum of 8 in 2years) Driving under the influence Driving with a suspended license Driving without auto insurance Being disqualified from driving due to a physical or psychological condition Failure to appear in court or to respond to the MVA’s notice to appear Failure to pay traffic tickets, fines, and court costs Failing to pay child support No matter your reason for a suspended driver’s license, the goal of a qualified suspended license lawyer in Baltimore and surrounding areas is to help you resolve them so you can continue driving legally. WHAT TO DO AFTER LOSING YOUR MARYLAND DRIVER’S LICENSE If you have received a notification from the Maryland MVA that your license has been suspended, pay close attention to the notice. If you still have your driver’s license, surrender it to the MVA by mailing it to their office or hand it over in person. If the police did not take your license away at the traffic stop that led to your suspension or in court, then you cannot hold onto it after receiving a notice of suspension. Next, be sure to refrain from driving. If you get caught driving with a suspended license, you may be arrested. Finally, you may choose to wait for the MVA to restore your license when the suspension period ends, or you may contact an attorney who helps drivers get their licenses back. For speedier service, go with the attorney. He or she will look into why your license was suspended and advise you on the steps you should take to start cleaning up your driving record so that you can get back on the road. YOUR LICENSE IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR The realization of the effects that a suspended license will have on your life may not sink in right away; however, the sooner you contact an attorney to help you restore your license, the better your chance will be of winning your license back. Don’t let the Maryland MVA bully you into a life without a license. Serving Baltimore and the surrounding areas for the past 20 years, attorney Hillel Traub focuses his practice on helping drivers reinstate their licenses. Hillel Traub has served as an Assistant Attorney General for the MVA and now uses his experience to your advantage. Call ( 410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form for a free consultation on what to do after a license suspension. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WHAT TO DO AFTER GETTING YOUR LICENSE SUSPENDED IN MARYLAND Can you get car insurance if your license is suspended? If you get notification from the Maryland MVA that your license has been suspended, surrender your driver’s license to the MVA by mailing it to their office or hand it over in person, and refrain from driving. You can contact an experienced traffic attorney to look into why your license was suspended and advise you on how to get it back. How do I get my license back after suspension? If your Maryland driver’s license has been suspended, refrain from driving, since you can be arrested for driving with a suspended license. You can choose to wait for the MVA to restore your license when the suspension period ends, or contact an attorney who helps drivers get their licenses back.

Drunk driving accidents are often catastrophic for victims and their families. DUI crashes are entirely preventable, yet the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shares that about 30 people die every day in an auto accident that involves alcohol. The Fourth of July is one of the deadliest and most dangerous holidays for DUI fatalities. According to one recent study by Value Penguin, the fatality rate is 23% greater than the average of most federal holidays, and 57% more likely on the Fourth of July than any other day in the summer. While many think of barbeques, beaches, fireworks, and time spent with family and friends when it comes to their Independence Day plans, it’s essential also to remember the risks that driving on this holiday involves. Law enforcement in Baltimore is aware of the surge in drunk driving incidents, and as a result, drunk driving arrests spike on this holiday each year across the state of Maryland. Table of Contents DUI Fatalities on the Fourth of July Compared to Other Major Holiday Fourth of July Celebrated Mid-Week is Largely More Fatal for DUI Accidents What are the Consequences of a Maryland Drunk Driving Arrest on the Fourth of July? How Can I Fight a Drunk Driving Charge in Maryland? Reliable Criminal Traffic Defense in Baltimore and Nearby Areas DUI Fatalities on the Fourth of July Compared to Other Major Holiday According to the study, there were 1,192 deaths caused by drunk driving accidents on the Fourth of July from 2010 to 2017. Compared to the number of DUI-related fatalities on Memorial Day weekend, there were 87 more on Independence Day. Compared to other major holidays, Fourth of July ranks the highest for average drunk driving fatalities in the following order: Fourth of July: 42.4 DUI deaths Memorial Day: 39.5 DUI deaths Labor Day: 38.1 DUI deaths New Year’s Day: 31.7 DUI deaths Thanksgiving: 27.9 DUI deaths Christmas Day: 27.7 DUI deaths Fourth of July Celebrated Mid-Week is Largely More Fatal for DUI Accidents In general, DUI accidents are most likely to occur on the weekend when many Americans are off from their jobs. However, when the Fourth of July falls in the middle of the week, the rate of DUI fatalities increase. Independence Day falling on Wednesday has a DUI fatality rate that’s 43% greater than when the holiday falls on Saturday. What are the Consequences of a Maryland Drunk Driving Arrest on the Fourth of July? Getting arrested for drunk driving is a severe offense in Maryland. This threatens the life of the negligent person behind the wheel and the countless lives of drivers and passengers sharing the road. Too often, innocent lives are lost in drunk driving accidents that were preventable. As a result, Maryland law enforcement confronts more DUI arrests on this Independence Day holiday than most others. The consequences of a drunk driving arrest in Maryland are severe, even for first-time offenders that could result in: Up to 1 year incarcerated in jail Up to $1,000 in fines plus court fees A suspension of driver’s license Mandatory community service Those charged with a DUI may also have to attend alcohol education or substance abuse programs, depending on the court order. A DUI arrest will haunt drivers in Maryland for years after the fact, as they are often subject to substantial increases in their insurance rates, sometimes as high as 47%. How Can I Fight a Drunk Driving Charge in Maryland? The best method to avoid a DUI arrest on the Fourth of July or any day of the year is to take necessary precautions any time that you may have the option of driving after drinking. Never take the chance, but think ahead of time how you’ll get home or go out. Whether that’s requesting a ride through Uber or Lyft, staying overnight at a friend’s house, or selecting a designated driver, a drunk driving arrest is never worth the risk. Should you find yourself facing a DUI charge, you can look to a knowledgeable DUI attorney like Hillel Traub for help. Reliable Criminal Traffic Defense in Baltimore and Nearby Areas Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has vast experience arguing against DUI charges for drivers in Baltimore and surrounding areas. As a formal Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, Attorney Traub knows what it takes to preserve his clients’ driver’s licenses. He now dedicates his practice to citizens of Baltimore and surrounding areas, providing knowledgeable and personal representation for DUI offenders. To schedule a free consultation and speak with Attorney Traub about your DUI matter, call (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form.

Most of the United States is currently under a patchwork of orders calling for people to stay at home. The risks associated with catching and spreading coronavirus are too great to go on about life as usual. The coronavirus disease of 2019, also called COVID-19, has been proven deadly among people of all ages, and there currently exists no vaccine to protect the population. In Maryland, Gov. Larry Hogan issued an executive order calling for residents to stay home on Monday, March 30, 2020 to help slow the spread of coronavirus. The order directs people to stay home unless they provide an essential service or must do so for an essential reason, like going to the grocery store, pharmacy, urgent care clinic, or post office. The order shut down several businesses statewide, like restaurants, gyms, malls, casinos, movie theaters, and others considered “nonessential.” Even schools have transitioned to a completely online model for the time being. Table of Contents How Much Has Speeding Increased in Densely-Populated Areas? Consequences of Excessive Speeding in Maryland Were You Ticketed During Coronavirus in Maryland? Contact Hillel Traub With more people cooped up at home, there are nearly empty streets, which has proven to be a temptation for those inclined to speed. While the number of traffic accidents has declined, many large cities are experiencing an uptick in the number of citations issued for driving dangerously. How Much Has Speeding Increased in Densely-Populated Areas? With nearly empty roads and a reduced police presence, some people don’t fight the urge to exceed the speed limit when they do get out during the coronavirus shutdown. With fewer drivers on the road, it’s also more difficult to gauge one’s own speed, as there are no other drivers to reference. As a result, speeding is on the rise, which puts the lives of those who absolutely do need to travel in harm’s way. In New York City, speed cameras issued 180,718 summonses on weekdays from March 5- 24. Speed cameras in the city only issue tickets on weekdays. This number is 12.3% higher than for the comparable 14-day period from January 13-31, when cameras issued 158,510 speeding tickets. The increase in tickets comes at a time when vehicle miles traveled throughout the city’s 5 boroughs is down 71%. In California, traffic accidents across the state are down 50% on highways according to a study by UC Davis. In Los Angeles, drivers are traveling 12% faster on weekdays and 6% faster on weekends. The California Highway Patrol wrote 543 tickets to drivers traveling 100+ miles per hour from March 19-29. During that same time last year, CHP officers wrote 418 tickets for reaching or exceeding 100 miles per hour. While many parts of the country are seeing an increase in tickets for speeding, which puts the lives of other drivers at risk, many officers have been instructed to be more lenient when addressing minor traffic violations. In Detroit, police officers are committed to only address traffic offenses that can hurt others. As a public-facing position, officers are at a much higher risk of contracting COVID-19 than the general population. After 500 officers were quarantined due to exposure to the virus, two officers who were exposed died. The Chief of Operations for Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Mike Jaafar, made it clear to the public that the threat of the virus is not worth the risk to their lives and that they would focus on social distancing. “I’m not a proponent of going out there right now. Unless you’re doing something blatant and affecting the safety of others, we’re warning folks as best we can and making sure folks understand social distancing is a priority.” Consequences of Excessive Speeding in Maryland The City of Baltimore is also experiencing considerably reduced traffic as more people are conducting business from the comfort of their homes. Excessive speeding in Maryland is defined as going 15 miles per hour or more above the posted speed limit. It’s considered a serious traffic violation that may lead to harsh penalties, which could be increased if a driver was found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if the speeding led to a crash. A person accused of excessive speeding may face steep fines and points against their driver’s license. The violation may result in the following penalties: Going 10 to 19 mph over the speed limit: $90 fine and two points Going 20 to 29 mph over the speed limit: $160 fine and two points Going 30 to 39 mph over the speed limit: $290 fine and five points Going at least 40 mph over the speed limit: $560 fine and five points Were You Ticketed During Coronavirus in Maryland? Contact Hillel Traub Traffic violation attorney Hillel Traub of the Law Office of Hillel Traub is a former Assistant Attorney for the Maryland MVA who thoroughly understands the organization’s inner workings. He knows what it will take to successfully challenge a speeding ticket and will help you avoid court fees. For more than 20 years, he has helped residents of Baltimore and surrounding areas fight traffic charges. If you receive a speeding ticket by mail, make sure your first step is a call to (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.