Maryland Vehicle Laws You Might Not Know About
Each year in Maryland, drivers are subject to changes in the Maryland Transportation Code. While the most significant changes in the laws and procedures might receive some publicity, others may catch drivers unaware. If you carry a Maryland driver’s license or frequently travel through the state for business, these are some relatively new vehicle laws you might not know about.
New Maryland Traffic Laws in Effect as of October 1, 2017
In 2017, some traffic laws went into effect that drivers and other motorists should be aware of, including:
- New Maryland Traffic Laws in Effect as of October 1, 2017
- New Maryland Traffic Laws in Effect as of October 1, 2018
- Other Laws in Effect as of October 1, 2019
- Contact a Criminal Traffic Attorney Serving Baltimore
- Bicycles, unicycles, and play vehicles have the same rights on sidewalks as pedestrians.
- Obstructions hanging from a rear-view mirror, such as fuzzy dice, are now a secondary traffic offense. This means that a police officer who stops you for a traffic offense can tack on a citation for having an object block your view.
- Vehicles may pass other vehicles making left turns on the right so long as they don’t leave the pavement.
- Registered tow trucks responding to service calls may operate in the High Occupancy Lane no matter how many passengers they have, so long as they have prior law enforcement authorization.
New Maryland Traffic Laws in Effect as of October 1, 2018
In 2018, a few important laws took effect, such as:
- Snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles are allowed on some sections of highways in Allegany County so long as they travel no faster than 25 miles per hour.
- The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration can provide copies of birth certificates so long as the drivers have a record with the Maryland Department of Health.
- Non-airport taxi drivers can’t solicit passengers at the airport. They may do so from parking lots.
- Parking a disabled, inoperable, or immobilized vehicle on a public street for more than 7 days is prohibited in Washington County.
- Those with outstanding warrants in the following areas may have their tax refunds intercepted:
- Washington County
- Anne Arundel County
- Baltimore City
Other Laws in Effect as of October 1, 2019
Even more recently, some traffic laws since October 2019 have had a considerable impact on drivers. Some of the most critical changes to watch for include:
- Ignition Interlock Systems: All IID systems will require cameras to capture still shots to use as proof of violations during breath alcohol detection. Current users do not need to upgrade their devices unless they fail to work, users buy a new car, or they exit and then re-enter the system.
- Suspended Driver’s Licenses: Under SB237, those convicted of possessing a revoked, suspended, or canceled license will not face jail time. Instead, they will be assessed fewer points. Currently, a penalty carries a potential 2-month sentence and an assessment of up to 12 points. Under the new law, drivers may be fined up to $500 and assessed 3 points.
- Unspecified Sex on Licenses: Applicants may now leave the “sex” designation on a driver’s license, identification card, or moped operator’s permit as unspecified. The MVA will fill this part of the license with an X.
- Pedestrian Safety: Drivers who fail to stop for pedestrians may face a fine of up to $1,000 — up from $500 — under SB460.
- DUI: Under HB707, criminal penalties for DUI may increase. If you have prior convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, your sentence may be longer and you may face more costly fines.
Contact a Criminal Traffic Attorney Serving Baltimore
Some traffic offenses are crimes that can stay on your record long after you’ve resolved matters with the court. If you’re facing a DUI or license-related criminal charge, you can trust Hillel Traub to compose a proper defense while doing everything possible to protect your driver’s license.
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has extensive experience defending all types of traffic charges throughout Maryland. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he has insider knowledge of the MVA’s inner workings that can greatly benefit your case. Contact our law firm for a free consultation by calling (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form.
Maryland Traffic Law Changes to Anticipate in 2020
On October 1, 2019, hundreds of new state laws went into effect touching on various matters pertaining to healthcare, employment, alcohol and tobacco sales, and even firearms. Some key laws affecting transportation also took hold. As you’re anticipating the new year, here’s what you need to know about traffic law changes in Maryland.
Updates to DUI and Drugged Driving Penalties
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is already a serious matter, but the penalties for select offenses are becoming more severe. Under HB0707, the penalties for DUI for those who have prior convictions could increase. Anyone with a prior conviction or who has been convicted of DUI while transporting a minor may face a longer sentence and higher fines.
- Updates to DUI and Drugged Driving Penalties
- No Incarceration for Possessing a Revoked, Suspended, or Canceled Maryland Driver’s License
- Ignition Interlock Devices Will Incorporate Cameras
- HB 748 Gives Electric Scooters Same Protections as Bicycles
- Caught Violating a New Traffic Law in Baltimore or Other Location?
No Incarceration for Possessing a Revoked, Suspended, or Canceled Maryland Driver’s License
Anyone who is convicted of possessing a revoked, suspended, or canceled Maryland driver’s license will no longer face incarceration and will be assessed fewer points. Currently, a person can face a two-month sentence and 12 license points for possessing an invalid license. The new law will reduce the number of points to 3 and remove the possibility of incarceration altogether. According to the state, the current number of people in jail over possessing a revoked, suspended, or canceled license is “negligible.”
Ignition Interlock Devices Will Incorporate Cameras
Under the new state law, all new ignition interlock devices will include cameras to capture images of potential violations during the process of submitting a breath sample before starting a vehicle. Current Ignition interlock device users do not need to update their equipment; however, if their IIDs fail and they need to replace them, the new system must incorporate a camera.
HB 748 Gives Electric Scooters Same Protections as Bicycles
Electric scooters, such as the ones taking over major metropolitan areas as rentals, now have the same legal status as bicycles. Under the new law, electric scooter users have the same rights and responsibilities as cyclists, and must adhere to the same rules of the road.
Caught Violating a New Traffic Law in Baltimore or Other Location?
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub makes fighting traffic charges his top priority, and has done so for more than 20 years. Hillel Traub stands up for drivers throughout Maryland, with a particular focus on the City of Baltimore and surrounding areas. Before becoming a traffic lawyer, Hillel Traub worked as an Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA. If you’re facing a citation for violating a traffic law and you could have points assessed, don’t pay the fine. Challenge the state’s case against you with the help of a competent attorney.
Paying a fine is an admission of guilt, and adding points to your license may one day result in a license suspension. By seeking legal representation, you can avoid a charge on your driving record and license points, which will protect your driving privileges. Find out how to begin your traffic ticket defense by calling (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
Almost all states have prohibited the use of cell phones while driving, but distracted driving remains a significant problem throughout the U.S. According to the CDC, 1,000 people are hurt, and 9 are killed, in distracted driving crashes daily. Many of these accidents involve people who text and drive, despite laws making it illegal to do so.
In Maryland, a particular suburb is testing a program that would enable police officers to catch drivers who reach for their phones behind the wheel. Montgomery County Council Member Tom Hucker is requesting permission from the state legislature to weigh the possibilities of installing an anti-distracted driving system. This would employ highway cameras to record drivers continuously. Officers or artificial intelligence would review the footage, identify the drivers, and send them a fine in the mail. It would be the first program of its kind in the country.
- How Would Cameras Catch Distracted Drivers in Maryland?
- Who’s On Board with Distracted Driving Camera Systems?
- What are Current Laws and Penalties for Distracted Driving?
- Have You Been Cited for Distracted Driving? Contact Hillel Traub
How Would Cameras Catch Distracted Drivers in Maryland?
The cameras lawmakers are reviewing would work like red light and speeding cameras, but instead of license plates, the devices would record what drivers are doing in their vehicles. Hucker and his office are reviewing technology from different companies around the globe.
One system, from Australian-based company Acusensus, was just launched in New South Wales. The system relies on fixed and transportable cameras to capture driver footage, which is then reviewed by artificial intelligence. During its 6-month trial in Australia, it caught 100,000 drivers on their phones out of the 8.5 million vehicles scanned.
Who’s On Board with Distracted Driving Camera Systems?
While the technology appears promising to reduce the relatively high rates of transportation fatalities in the suburb, not everyone is on board with the idea of installing such a system. Some Montgomery County officials, local police agencies, national motor clubs, and others don’t believe it’s fair to install a complex network of cameras that film everything drivers do. Citing privacy concerns and concerns about the effectiveness of such a program, many have voiced their skepticism.
One council member, Will Jawando, worries that drivers might be racially profiled or wrongly selected for discipline. “There are serious, serious privacy concerns here,” he said. “I think this is a really dangerous path to go down.” A public affairs manager with AAA Mid-Atlantic also opined that the technology is “too invasive.” Supporters, on the other hand, point out that drivers have no expectation of privacy in public, such as when they’re on public highways.
What are Current Laws and Penalties for Distracted Driving?
Some lawmakers have tried to increase the fines for texting and driving, but this has been rejected three times in a row. In 2018, a bill that would have raised the fine for texting and driving to $500 failed in the state Senate. Some stated the fine would simply be too costly for most Maryland drivers and would do more harm than good.
Currently, the maximum fine for the first violation of Maryland’s cell phone use law is $75 for using a handheld device and $70 for texting. If using a phone or texting contributes to a serious injury or death, the driver may face penalties of up to $5,000 in fines and 3 years in prison under a relatively new measure called Jake’s Law, which passed in 2014. License points may also be assessed.
Have You Been Cited for Distracted Driving? Contact Hillel Traub
Distracted driving contributes to so many accidents each year that police are really starting to crack down on offenders. Some traffic offenses are crimes that can stay on your record long after you’ve resolved matters with the court. If you’re facing a distracted driving citation, you can trust Hillel Traub to compose a proper defense while doing everything possible to protect your driver’s license.
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has extensive experience defending all types of traffic charges throughout Maryland. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he has insider knowledge of the MVA’s inner workings that can greatly benefit your case. Contact our law firm for a free consultation by calling (410) 352-7575 or complete our contact form.
Maryland Rules for Moving With the Flow of Traffic
When out on the roads, most drivers assume that they may only receive a traffic citation if they are speeding. However, you may be surprised to learn that you can be pulled over by a law enforcement officer if you are disrupting the flow of traffic by driving too slowly as well. In Maryland, it is important that you understand the various rules that concern moving with the flow of traffic and how breaking these rules may affect you.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a Maryland traffic offense law firm dedicated to ensuring that the rights and interests of its clients are protected. If you are pulled over by the police as a result of breaking one of the state’s rules for moving with the flow of traffic, it is important that you call attorney Hillel Traub as soon as possible to understand your options.
- Understanding Maryland’s Rules For Moving With the Flow of Traffic
- Speak With a Maryland Traffic Offense Lawyer For Help With Your Case
Understanding Maryland’s Rules For Moving With the Flow of Traffic
Just as it is dangerous to speed, it is also dangerous to drive too slowly, as this can upset the flow of traffic on a busy road and potentially cause an accident. At the same time, if there is a group of drivers all speeding and you decide to drive alongside them, or “move with the flow of traffic,” you may still be pulled over for speeding even if the other drivers were not.
In Maryland, moving with the flow of traffic as a reason for speeding is not a valid defense and you will likely still be issued a citation. The other rules concerning the flow of traffic in Maryland are as follows:
Maryland’s Flow of Traffic Law
Also referred to as the minimum speed rule, the flow of traffic law requires drivers to move at a minimum speed notated on a sign on any given road. For example, on busy highways, drivers may pass by a sign that states that the minimum speed in this area is 65 miles per hour. That means that any drivers moving below this speed may be disrupting the flow of traffic and could be pulled over and issued a citation. If you are issued a citation for breaking the Maryland flow of traffic law, a trusted traffic offense lawyer may be able to help you with your defense.
Maryland’s Slower Traffic, Keep Right Law
Commonly called the “Move Over” rule, this law states that Maryland drivers must stay in the furthest right-hand lane when moving at a slower speed than the normal rate of traffic. Additionally, this rule comes into play if someone is driving at least 10 miles per hour below the posted speed limit. To avoid breaking this rule and being pulled over for a traffic violation, it is best to stay to the right unless you plan to pass slower traffic or you are preparing for a left turn.
If you have been issued a traffic violation for breaking one of Maryland’s rules for moving with the flow of traffic, it is important that you work with a knowledgeable traffic offense attorney who may be able to help get the penalty you are facing reduced or dropped completely.
Speak With a Maryland Traffic Offense Lawyer For Help With Your Case
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a former lawyer for MVA, so he is deeply familiar with Maryland laws relating to moving with the flow of traffic. He is dedicated to helping clients get the penalties they are facing for traffic violations reduced or dropped. To begin speaking about your legal options and to schedule a free consultation, contact us here or call (410) 352-7575.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 [the MVA] 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.
- 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.
Maryland Expands “Move Over” Law
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.
- 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.
Maryland Criminal Traffic Charges
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.
- 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.
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