There is nothing that will ruin a nice drive quicker than seeing the flashing red and blue lights in your rearview that signal that you are about to be issued a traffic ticket. If you have been issued a ticket, then you know that it can be costly to pay it off and there is a time frame that the ticket must be paid within in order to avoid any further legal action. If you have an unpaid traffic ticket in Maryland, you may be wondering if you could be at risk of jail time.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a traffic violations law firm with experience helping clients who are facing legal repercussions for an unpaid traffic ticket. If you have an unpaid traffic ticket, it is crucial that you understand the extent of the legal consequences you may be facing if you do not pay it.
- What Are the Penalties for an Unpaid Traffic Ticket in Maryland?
- Can You Appeal a Maryland Traffic Ticket?
- Get Help From a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer as Soon as Possible
What Are the Penalties for an Unpaid Traffic Ticket in Maryland?
There are many reasons why a person may not pay their traffic ticket. Whether they simply do not have the financial means to cover the cost of the ticket or if they happened to forget about the traffic ticket altogether, if it goes unpaid, the individual may be faced with further legal repercussions.
If you have an unpaid traffic ticket, the penalties you will face in Maryland will not include jail time. While this may be cause for a sigh of relief on your part, you may still be at risk for other severe consequences. The penalties you may be at risk for after an unpaid traffic ticket in Maryland include:
- Additional fines that may vary depending on how past due the payment is
- Inability to renew your vehicle registration
- Suspension of your license
After you have been issued a traffic ticket in Maryland, you have up to 15 calendar days from the day you received it to pay the ticket in full. If you are unsure if you should have been issued the traffic ticket or if you need an extension, speak with a trusted traffic violation attorney as soon as possible to find out what your options are.
Can You Appeal a Maryland Traffic Ticket?
If you are out for a drive and are pulled over for a traffic infraction, it can be frustrating if you feel you were not actually breaking any traffic laws. Traffic offenses in Maryland are heard in the district court in the county in which the traffic ticket was issued. You have the right to appeal the ticket within 30 days of the trial of your case.
You should keep in mind that there are non-refundable fees for filing an appeal. If you are considering making an appeal for a traffic ticket, you should contact a Maryland traffic violations lawyer for help.
Get Help From a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer as Soon as Possible
No one wants to be issued a traffic ticket, but if it does happen, it is in your best interest to contact experienced Maryland Traffic Ticket lawyer Hillel Traub. As a former lawyer of MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is highly experienced in traffic violations and dedicated to helping clients who believe they have been unjustly issued a traffic ticket. To get help with your traffic ticket appeal, contact us here or call (410) 220-6976 for a free consultation.
Disconnecting from your mobile device is challenging in our current society. However, sending a quick text message while driving your vehicle may cause a serious crash or force you to face challenging legal consequences. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) reports that around 27,000 people suffer injuries annually from distracted driving. In order to combat these alarming numbers, Maryland imposes strict regulations and penalties for texting and driving.
The penalties you face for a texting and driving charge in Maryland depends on the number of previous offenses, whether a crash was involved, or if anyone suffered severe injuries or death. If this is your first texting and driving offense and there was no crash, you may be let off with a minor fine and warning. However, others may incur points on their license or serious charges that impact their driving privileges and even their license.
- Penalties for Texting While Driving in Maryland
- When Should I Contact a Traffic Offense Attorney?
- Speak With The Law Office of Hillel Traub for Experienced Legal Representation
Penalties for Texting While Driving in Maryland
While sending or reading a quick text message may seem harmless, the act may cause you to suffer harsh penalties that affect your life for years following the incident. The following details the potential consequences you may face after a texting and driving charge:
- Fines: Depending on the severity of the accident and whether a collision was involved, the person texting and driving may face fines of up to $500. If someone suffered a serious bodily injury or death, a person may face $5,000 in fines.
- Points: Texting violations may incur one point onto the motorist’s driving record. For those with previous violations or points on their record, this may alter their ability to drive.
- License suspension: For drivers under 18 years of age, a texting violation may cause a judge to suspend their license for up to 90 days for the offense. If there was a crash involved or someone was severely injured, the motorists’ driving privileges may also suffer consequences as punishment for negligence.
Driving is an important tool for Maryland residents, and not having the ability to drive is extremely harmful to many individuals’ lifestyles. If you’re facing harsh consequences from a texting violation, speak with a lawyer about how their knowledge and experience will protect you throughout your case.
When Should I Contact a Traffic Offense Attorney?
If you’re unsure how a texting and driving ticket will affect your driving privileges and life, a traffic offense attorney can explain and answer your questions thoroughly. Their experience and resources give them the tools to guide and represent you in legal proceedings. They will also provide the following services:
- Collecting vital information and documents
- Identifying potential legal issues
- Negotiating and limiting penalties
- Protecting your rights throughout the legal process
When you have past traffic offenses or points on your license, a texting-while-driving ticket might mean harsh penalties and a possible license suspension. For many, this would severely affect their ability to work and perform essential tasks. Speaking with a highly qualified lawyer will provide you with the resources and representation you need to limit the potential penalties you could face.
Speak With The Law Office of Hillel Traub for Experienced Legal Representation
When you work with our compassionate and understanding lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub, you’ll have a legal representative who understands your challenges. Everyone makes mistakes, and they should not infringe on your ability to work and perform essential daily tasks. Driving is more than just a privilege, it’s a vital aspect of our lives, and our attorney will do everything in his power to protect you in legal proceedings.
With years of experience advocating for Maryland residents, along with our lawyer who used to work for the MVA, we have built a solid community within the legal industry and will use our resources to offer highly qualified representation. Schedule a consultation with our firm by filling out our contact form or calling (410) 220-6976.
Considering a Jury Trial to Fight a DUI in Maryland
Driving under the influence is a serious traffic offense that may lead to significant penalties, such as jail time and steep fines, and the possibility of taking a mandated DUI course and installing an ignition interlock device. People caught driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated (DWI) also face license suspension. A DUI charge will appear on a background check and could have lasting repercussions.
When you discuss your DUI or DWI with a Maryland DUI defense lawyer, you learn about your defense options. Your lawyer’s goal is to reduce the charge and/or penalties you face if you’re convicted. Ideally, your lawyer will successfully negotiate with the prosecutor to have your case dismissed. It may also be possible to plead guilty to a lesser offense to face less severe punishment.
- Exercising Your Right to a Jury Trial in Maryland
- Don’t Take Chances. Work with a Maryland DUI Attorney Today.
Often, DUI defendants in Maryland make these plea deals in exchange for a reduced sentence. Plea deals help defendants avoid trial, which can be expensive, time-consuming, and unpredictable. On the other hand, you do have the right to a trial for your DUI case.
Exercising Your Right to a Jury Trial in Maryland
It is your Constitutional right to request a jury trial. A jury trial is one in which 12 jurors, who are your peers in the community, hear the evidence for and against you and decide whether you are guilty or not guilty of the crime. DUI and DWI cases in Maryland start in the District Court for the county in which the offense took place. Your first trial date is held in the District Court. These courts do not accommodate juries. Rather, juries attend trials held in Maryland’s circuit courts.
You may elect a jury trial at your appearance in the District Court. You may “pray a jury trial,” meaning that you formally request for your case to move from the District to the Circuit Court system where you may appear before a jury. The right to a jury trial in Maryland depends on the severity of the alleged offense. If the offense may lead to a jail term of more than 90 days, you may request a jury trial.
Bench Trials and Jury Trials in Maryland
Once you appear in Circuit Court, you may decide whether to elect a bench or jury trial. A bench trial is a trial that is held before a judge. In a bench trial, the judge is the finder of fact. He or she plays the role of the jury and makes the final judgment. This may be advantageous in some cases. Overall, bench trials may be:
● Less time consuming,
● Less formal,
● Less complex, and
● More effective when presenting complex facts or legal concepts than jury trials in Maryland.
However, a jury trial may provide advantages when the facts of your case are in dispute. If your lawyer and the prosecution cannot agree, for example, on the circumstances surrounding your arrest, a jury trial may work in your favor.
Who sits on a jury in a Maryland DUI case?
In Maryland, jurors are selected at random from motor vehicle and voter rolls. Anyone who is registered to vote in the state, or anyone with a driver’s license or ID card who is at least 18 years of age, a United States citizen, a Maryland resident, and can read and write in English is eligible to serve on a jury.
The jurors on your case will come from the county in which the trial is held. Different counties may have different views and beliefs about law and order; some jurors may favor a “tough on crime” approach to criminal justice, while others might be more understanding of a defendant’s actions. Some jurors may personally have been impacted by a drunk driving accident or a relative struggling with alcohol abuse. All of these factors come into play when deciding whether or not you should take your DUI case to trial.
What happens if the jury cannot decide a defendant’s innocence or guilt unanimously?
If the jury cannot agree to whether a defendant is guilty of DUI or DWI, the case will result in a “hung jury.” This doesn’t mean the defendant is off the hook. Instead, the State of Maryland has the power to try the case as many times as necessary until the jury votes unanimously for or against a conviction.
Don’t Take Chances. Work with a Maryland DUI Attorney Today.
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, our firm provides competent legal counsel for clients facing criminal traffic charges in Maryland. Attorney Hillel Traub has more than 20 years of experience fighting criminal traffic violations. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the MVA, he understands how they work to prevent you from exercising your driving privileges. You have the right to a quality defense after a DUI charge in Maryland; don’t hesitate to take action today.
Call (410) 220-6976 for a free consultation or complete our contact form. The sooner you work with a qualified attorney, the better the outcome of your case may be.
Common Traffic Ticket Errors in Maryland
Receiving a traffic ticket is something no driver wants to deal with. Traffic tickets are one of those things that suddenly disrupts your day, and in some cases, end up becoming a much larger problem than you initially thought. Tickets aren’t just a sheet of paper you can ignore—they cost money, have the potential to raise insurance premiums, and can remain part of your permanent driving record. Unfortunately, the amount of time spent dealing with these matters is prolonged when there are errors.
Many drivers in Maryland are under the impression that an error made by a police officer will result in their ticket being thrown out. They also assume that because they were issued a traffic ticket, they’re automatically guilty. Neither of these situations is inherently true. Still, it’s important to be aware of common errors and mistakes made by both officers and drivers to avoid complications down the road.
- Traffic Ticket Errors Cops Make in Maryland
- Mistakes Drivers Make After Being Issued a Traffic Ticket
- Fight Your Maryland Traffic Ticket with Hillel Traub Today
Traffic Ticket Errors Cops Make in Maryland
The impact of police errors depends on the severity of the error, the details of the offense, and how the judge declares the officer’s lapse in judgment. If the error is minor or subjective, such as noting the driver’s car color incorrectly, the judge will likely disregard complaints about the ticket’s legitimacy, and you will still need to address the citation.
On the other hand, a major error, such as recording the wrong location or writing down the wrong vehicle identification number, may be sufficient to produce doubts about the ticket. Other errors that could result in a dismissal include:
- Citing the wrong vehicle code violation number
- Notifying you of the wrong court date
- Leaving a significant portion of the ticket incomplete
- Recording a driver’s license number incorrectly
Keep in mind that you can complain about insignificant errors, but the most that will happen is the court will amend the ticket with the necessary corrections. The safest way to ensure an error doesn’t affect you is to consult a traffic violation lawyer and discuss the details of your citation.
Mistakes Drivers Make After Being Issued a Traffic Ticket
Whether it’s for an expired tag or running a stop sign, being pulled over and getting a ticket can be stressful. With so many thoughts running through your mind, you might start to overthink everything you say and worry that it’s going to be used against you. If you panic, you’re more prone to make mistakes that could exacerbate the situation. Many of the mistakes made by drivers after being issued a traffic ticket involve the following:
- Arguing with police
- Disclosing too much information
- Assuming you have no other choice but to admit guilt
- Refusing to sign the ticket
- Failing to complete a court-ordered driver improvement program
One costly mistake drivers make is not retaining the services of a traffic defense attorney. Again, because most drivers consider the violation itself an indication of guilt, they feel there is nothing else left to do but accept the penalties. The truth of the matter is that the state has the burden of proving that you committed the alleged traffic violation. Working with an attorney early on could possibly get your ticket reduced or dismissed.
Fight Your Maryland Traffic Ticket with Hillel Traub Today
Whether you need clarification after receiving a traffic ticket or believe certain technicalities might make your traffic ticket invalid, protect your driving privileges with a traffic offense lawyer that brings more than 30 years of experience to the table. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a former attorney for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration who helps drivers challenge charges for traffic violations.
Find out what Attorney Hillel Traub can do for you by calling (410) 220-6976 for a free consultation or completing our contact form.
Common CDL Traffic Violations in Maryland
A commercial driver’s license or CDL is a special license that allows the holder to operate or tow vehicles with specified weight limits and passenger totals. Many rely upon a CDL to perform essential job duties, which is why a CDL suspension or revocation in Maryland can be devastating. The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration is the sole entity responsible for issuing commercial driver’s licenses in the state of Maryland. They also suspend, revoke, and reinstate CDLs.
If the MVA suspended your Maryland CDL, the State has likely accused you of committing a serious traffic violation. A Baltimore suspended CDL attorney like Hillel Traub can begin to investigate the facts of your case to help you on the path toward reinstating your license in Baltimore and surrounding areas.
- Who Needs a CDL in Maryland?
- CDL Violations
- Violations Specific to Commercial Drivers
- DUI Violations with a Commercial Driver’s License
- Protect your CDL with a Baltimore CDL Violation Defense Lawyer
Who Needs a CDL in Maryland?
A Maryland CDL allows people to drive larger, heavier vehicles that are typically used for commercial purposes. A CDL is necessary when:
- Your car has a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 26,000 pounds
- The trailer you drive has a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds
- Your car can hold 16 or more people
- You use your car to transports hazardous materials
While thousands rely upon a CDL to do their jobs, many offenses can lead to a CDL suspension, leaving drivers with few options for employment for the duration of the suspension. There are many traffic violations that may lead to the suspension of a license in Maryland; however, the consequences may worsen for those who hold a commercial driver’s license.
CDL Violations
A number of traffic violations may lead to a minimum 1-year license suspension. The penalties can be more severe if the vehicle involved in the offense transported hazardous materials. CDL violations may include moving and nonmoving violations.
Moving Violations with a CDL
Some of the more common CDL moving violations over which the state of Maryland will suspend your license are:
- Driving more than 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit
- Operating a commercial vehicle in a way that endangers others
- Reckless driving
- Tailgating
- Improper lane changes
Additionally, a commercial driver may face a license suspension for operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) without the right license or having more than one commercial driver’s license from multiple states.
Violations Specific to Commercial Drivers
Commercial vehicle drivers must uphold specific rules when operating their cars as part of their responsibilities of holding a CDL. Violating these rules may result in citations and/or fines.
-
- Failing to place a placard on a car transporting hazardous materials
- Exceeding the legal vehicle weight
- Failing to make a complete stop at a red light or stop sign
- Driving without the required minimum insurance
- Loading cargo in a hazardous manner
- Exceeding the federal Hours of Service limitations
- Failing to secure cargo properly
- Overloading the truck and/or trailer
- Failing to keep updated logbooks per the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act
DUI Violations with a Commercial Driver’s License
Lastly, DUI with a CDL is a serious violation that can stand in the way of making a living with a CDL. You may lose your commercial license for at least one year if you are convicted of:
- DUI with a BAC of 0.04 or higher
- Refusing to take a blood alcohol test
- Driving under the influence of a controlled substance
Don’t hesitate to contact a qualified CDL attorney in Baltimore and surrounding areas as soon as you learn of the charges against you. The sooner you work with a lawyer who resolves DUI, the more options may be available to protect your CDL and reputation.
Protect your CDL with a Baltimore CDL Violation Defense Lawyer
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. His insider knowledge on MVA practices provides security for your case, whether you face a minor traffic citation or a DUI charge with a CDL.
Seek a free consultation by calling (410) 220-6976 or complete our contact form.
CDL Disqualifications in Maryland
Driving a commercial vehicle is a big responsibility that not everyone is qualified for. Commercial drivers in Maryland are held to a much higher standard than regular drivers. Due to the sheer size and potential danger of large trucks and vans, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets strict regulations and rules all drivers with a commercial driver’s license, or CDL, must follow. Included in these rules and regulations are a number of traffic violations that can prevent a person from working as a commercial vehicle driver.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a Maryland law firm with extensive experience helping clients who have been unable to work as a commercial driver as a result of CDL disqualifications. Attorney Hillel Traub is dedicated to helping provide you with the knowledge and legal counsel you need to ensure you understand what the CDL disqualifications in Maryland are and how they may affect your career. If you have been charged with a traffic violation that has led to your disqualification, Attorney Hillel Traub may be able to help you by providing you with the personalized legal representation needed to have the disqualifications reversed.
- Moving Violations That May Disqualify a CDL Driver
- What Is the Procedure to Get a CDL License Back in Maryland?
- Contact Hillel Traub To Get Help With Your CDL Disqualification Case
Moving Violations That May Disqualify a CDL Driver
Under Maryland law, part 383 of the FMCSA Regulations and Interpretations governs disqualifications for CDL drivers. There are many different violations that may cause a driver to be disqualified from a CDL license in Maryland. Among the most severe moving violations are:
- Excessive speeding: Excessive speeding is when a driver goes 15 mph or more past the posted speed limit. While excessive speeding will generally not prevent a regular driver from keeping his license, a person may be disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for excessive speeding.
- Leaving the scene of an accident: All CMV drivers must stop if they are involved in a vehicle crash. Fleeing the scene is grounds for disqualification and may also lead to criminal penalties.
- Driving Under the Influence: A DUI will lead to a license suspension without the aid of a qualified DUI lawyer in Baltimore. A CMV driver with a BAC at or above 0.04 will be disqualified from commercial driving and will lose both his regular and commercial license.
If you have been charged with any of these moving violations, this may affect your eligibility to keep or obtain your CDL license. In addition to moving violations, there are other serious CDL violations you may be charged with:
- Using your commercial vehicle to distribute, manufacture, or dispense controlled substances
- Using your commercial vehicle to commit a felony offense
- Being under the influence of a controlled substance or failing to pass a drug test
In addition to the violations above, there are actions a commercial driver may take behind the wheel that can lead to other consequences and/or disqualification from driving a CMV.
CDL Violations Behind the Wheel
These CDL violations may include:
- Following another vehicle too closely
- Reckless driving
- Committing traffic violations in connection to a fatal accident
- Driving a commercial vehicle without:
- Obtaining a CDL
- Carrying a CDL
- The proper CDL classification or endorsement
- Erratic lane changes
If you have been charged with any of these violations, it is crucial that you contact the Law Office of Hillel Traub as soon as possible. While it may seem as if your case is hopeless, Attorney Hillel Traub has extensive experience helping clients who are facing CDL disqualifications in Maryland.
What Is the Procedure to Get a CDL License Back in Maryland?
There are many different reasons a driver may need to reinstate their commercial driver’s license in Maryland. If your Maryland CDL has been suspended, disqualified, or revoked by the Motor Vehicle Administration, it is essential that you are able to satisfy the requirements of your disqualification so that you may have it reinstated.
In Maryland, the requirements and fees required to have your CDL reinstated may vary depending on your specific disqualification or offense. However, if your commercial driver’s license has been disqualified for less than one year, the requirements for reinstatement are as follows:
- Wait out your disqualification period
- Pay any fees you owe
- Submit any required documentation
- Clear any other suspensions or revocations
- Satisfy any court requirements
If your CDL was disqualified for one full year or longer, you will also need to pass the commercial driver’s license knowledge and driving skills tests before you may have your CDL reinstated. To get help with the necessary requirements of having your CDL reinstated, contact Attorney Hillel Traub as soon as possible.
Contact Hillel Traub To Get Help With Your CDL Disqualification Case
If you have been charged with a traffic violation that has caused you to be disqualified from keeping or obtaining a CDL license in Maryland, you may be able to get your CDL license back with the help of a trusted traffic violations attorney.
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has over 20 years of experience helping commercial drivers throughout Baltimore keep their CDL. He was a former Assistant Attorney General for the Motor Vehicle Administration who has acquired decades of unmatched experience. For a free consultation, call us at (410) 220-6976 or fill out our contact form.
While you are operating your vehicle, even if you’re stopped at a stoplight, it is prohibited to use your phone without a hands-free device in Maryland. However, if your car is off or is parked off the travel portion of the road, you may use your phone because you are no longer operating a vehicle in motion. Distracted driving accounts for thousands of injuries and fatalities annually, with drivers being much more likely to get into an accident and sustain serious injuries if they use their cell phones while driving.
The decision to use your cell phone while operating a car in motion can have serious lasting consequences, including breaking the laws aimed to protect drivers may lead to financial and other penalties. In Maryland, any driver who engages in texting while driving or using a handheld device for any reason while driving in the travel portion of the road can be issued a $40 fine for a first offense and up to $100 for subsequent offenses.
- What Are Maryland’s Cell Phone Laws?
- Penalties for Texting and Driving in Maryland
- Contact the Experienced Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
What Are Maryland’s Cell Phone Laws?
Without a hands-free device, it is unlawful to use a phone while operating a vehicle. Overall, this means that if your car is in drive or on the traveling side of the road, you may be issued a citation. This law is a secondary offense, so you also have to be committing a primary traffic offense, such as speeding or reckless driving, before you receive a citation for a cell phone offense. If your car is off or is parked on a non-traveling portion of the road, you may use your cell phone.
Texting laws prohibit a driver from using a cell phone to write, read, or send a text message while operating a vehicle, on the travel side of the ride, or if the vehicle is in motion. Exceptions may include using a GPS or contacting 911 in emergency situations. To avoid misdemeanor convictions and a fine of up to $500 depending on the unique circumstance, speak with the experienced Maryland traffic violation lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub.
Penalties for Texting and Driving in Maryland
If you are stopped for a primary traffic offense, a cell phone usage citation may have the following penalties in Maryland:
- A fine of not more than $40 for a first offense
- A fine of $100 for a second or subsequent offense
- Unless the offense contributes to an accident, you may not be penalized with a point against your driving record
- If you seriously injure or kill a victim due to distracted driving, there may be higher penalties, such as incarceration and thousands of dollars in fines.
There is a potential that penalties may be waived for individuals who received a first offense for using their cell phone while driving or if you show proof of purchase of a hands-free device, an attachment, or a built-in feature that will allow you to operate a vehicle hands-free.
Distracted driving may not seem like a serious violation. However, if you have subsequent citations on your driving record, penalties may be severe and costly. Driving points can add up and ultimately lead to a license suspension. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we are well-versed in Maryland traffic laws and understand how to fight on your behalf to help you avoid heavy penalties.
Contact the Experienced Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Attorney Hillel Traub at The Law Office of Hillel Traub has over 20 years of exceptional service in challenging and defending traffic violation cases. He has secured millions of dollars for clients and provided competent traffic defense with personal attention to even the most complex cases. As a former Assistant Attorney General at the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, he understands how to fight for you.
Speak with us during your free consultation on how you could potentially fight your traffic violation by calling (410) 220-6976 or by filling out our contact form.
Even if your eyes are still on the road, Maryland law still considers driving and talking on the phone as a distraction. Maryland law defines distracted driving as any activity that diverts attention from driving. If you’re talking on the phone, you’re focusing on the conversation and not what’s going on around you.
Driving requires full attention. If someone turns into your lane but you’re speaking with someone on the phone, you may miss the opportunity to slow down and stop an accident. Maryland takes distracted driving seriously and has regulations to stop Maryland residents from continuing the behavior. If you have further questions about how distracted driving has impacted your case, contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub today.
- Can You Talk on the Phone While You Drive in Maryland?
- What Is Considered Distracted Driving in Maryland?
- Contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub for an Experienced Traffic Offense Attorney
Can You Talk on the Phone While You Drive in Maryland?
In Maryland, an individual may not use their hands to use a handheld device, other than to turn a telephone on and off or to start and end a call. You are unable to hold the device in your hand. Since texting and driving is a primary offense, if an officer sees you holding a phone, they have the authority to stop the vehicle and investigate the situation immediately.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Adult drivers may use handheld phones for emergency use. Calling 911, an ambulance, the fire department, a law enforcement agency, or a hospital are examples of emergency situations where the driver can use their phone. Individuals may also use wireless communication devices or hand-free devices built within the car.
It’s important to note that those under the age of 18 may not use wireless communication devices at all while driving. The only time they may use a hands-free phone is when calling emergency services. An officer is able to pull them over and the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) may suspend their provisional driver’s license or learner’s permit for up to 90 days.
What Is Considered Distracted Driving in Maryland?
Not every distraction means taking your eyes off the road. Maryland considers distracted driving as anything that diverts a driver’s attention from the primary task of driving. There are three categories of distractions that an act may fall under:
- Visual: Visual distractions are anything that takes your eyes off the road. Some examples include billboards, pedestrians, or even other passengers.
- Manual: When your hands leave the wheel to grab or use an object, you are distracted while driving. For example, changing the radio, grabbing your drink, or holding your phone are all manual distractions.
- Cognitive: The last category is a cognitive distraction, where a driver takes their mind off driving. Having an extensive conversation on the phone, operating the vehicle while experiencing fatigue, and thinking about tomorrow’s agenda may all cause your mind to wander.
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of fatal accidents in the United States. In an effort to reduce the number of distracted driving accidents, injuries, and fatalities, Maryland law takes these acts very seriously. Those found distracted driving may have their license suspended and high fines for the action.
Contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub for an Experienced Traffic Offense Attorney
With technology continuing to intertwine with our daily lives, it’s almost impossible to detach yourself from a text message or phone call. A family member or your boss may call you unexpectedly. Many people have difficulty rejecting incoming calls while driving, which may lead to a traffic offense.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub understands the challenges you face when driving and how difficult it may be to detach yourself from your phone. A simple mistake should not continue to impact your life drastically. Let Hillel Traub, who is a former lawyer for the MVA, represent you in a traffic offense case. Our firm can provide you with dependable resources and answers. Call (410) 220-6976 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.
The car-buying process should be straightforward, but dishonest dealership practices can complicate what should be a simple transaction. Fraudulent tactics, like hiding information about the car’s history or inflating financing terms, can lead to financial losses and unnecessary stress. If you were exploited by a car dealership, you may be able to take legal action against them.
Spotting dealership fraud requires a keen eye and knowledge of the tactics that unscrupulous sellers use. With over 30 years of experience, Attorney Hillel Traub has successfully helped Maryland clients navigate complex legal issues, including those stemming from misleading car sales practices. From hidden fees to falsified loan terms, Attorney Traub can help you assess your situation and hold the responsible party accountable.
- What Is Dealership Fraud?
- What To Do If You Were a Victim of Dealership Fraud
- Schedule a Consultation with Attorney Hillel Traub
What Is Dealership Fraud?
Dealership fraud occurs when a car dealer uses deceptive practices to manipulate the terms of a sale or mislead a buyer. These tactics can result in financial harm or leave the buyer stuck with a vehicle that isn’t what they bargained for.
Common types of dealership fraud include:
- False advertising: Promoting deals or features that don’t exist.
- Undisclosed vehicle damage: Selling cars with prior accidents or hidden mechanical issues.
- Odometer tampering: Rolling back the odometer to make a car appear less used.
- Financing fraud: Misrepresenting loan terms, interest rates, or monthly payments.
- Title washing: Selling a car with a salvaged title as though it’s clean.
- Hidden fees: Adding charges without the buyer’s knowledge or consent.
Identifying fraud as early as possible can save you from unnecessary financial loss. Look out for warning signs such as discrepancies in paperwork, unexplained fees, pressure tactics, and missing documentation. Ultimately, if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and dig deeper into the details of your purchase.
What To Do If You Were a Victim of Dealership Fraud
Dealership fraud isn’t just unethical—it’s often illegal. Federal and state laws are in place to protect car buyers from deceptive practices. Taking immediate action is crucial if you believe you’ve been a victim of dealership fraud. If the dealership misrepresented any details about the car or engaged in deceptive practices, you could seek compensation for damages, including the cost of the vehicle and any additional expenses incurred.
Here’s what to do to protect your rights if you were a victim of dealership fraud in Maryland:
Gather Evidence
Collect all documentation related to the purchase, including the sales contract, financing agreement, advertisements, and any communication with the dealership. Photos of the vehicle and odometer readings can also be helpful.
Report the Fraud
File a complaint with the following organizations:
- The FTC: Submit a complaint online at ftc.gov/complaint.
- The Maryland Attorney General: File a complaint here: https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/Pages/CPD/Complaint.aspx.
- The Better Business Bureau (BBB): While not a legal entity, the BBB can help mediate disputes. You can submit complaints here: https://www.bbb.org/file-a-complaint.
Reporting fraud to these organizations can help protect others from falling victim to similar schemes.
Consult an Attorney
An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue compensation. Depending on the nature of the fraud, you may be able to sue for:
- Reimbursement of financial losses
- Rescission of the purchase contract
- Punitive damages for intentional wrongdoing
Some car dealerships may require disputes to go through arbitration or mediation rather than a lawsuit. However, legal counsel can help you navigate the process even in such cases.
Schedule a Consultation with Attorney Hillel Traub
If you’ve fallen victim to dealership fraud, you don’t have to face the challenge of seeking justice alone. With over 30 years of legal experience, Attorney Hillel Traub has helped countless Maryland residents protect their rights and recover losses caused by deceptive practices. His deep understanding of consumer protection laws and dedication to client advocacy ensures a thorough approach to your case.
Whether you’re facing false advertising, financing fraud, or hidden fees, Attorney Traub can assess your situation and guide you toward a resolution. As a former lawyer for the MVA, he brings unique insights and tailored strategies to every case. Call (410) 220-6976 or visit our contact form to schedule a consultation.
Yes, you can sue a car dealer for selling a recalled or unsafe vehicle, depending on your state’s laws and the specific circumstances of your case. When dealers knowingly sell vehicles with active safety recalls or misrepresent a vehicle’s safety status, they may be violating state consumer protection laws, committing fraud, or breaching their warranty obligations.
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we understand the frustration and potential danger of purchasing a vehicle only to discover it has unresolved safety recalls or hidden defects. With over 30 years of experience, including as a former lawyer for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), attorney Hillel Traub has the knowledge and experience to help Maryland consumers who have been victimized by dealership fraud or misrepresentation.
- Understanding Vehicle Recalls and Dealer Obligations
- Legal Remedies for Purchasing a Recalled Vehicle
- Protecting Yourself When Buying a Vehicle
- Contact an Experienced Maryland Auto Fraud Attorney
Understanding Vehicle Recalls and Dealer Obligations
Vehicle recalls occur when manufacturers or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determine that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or fails to meet minimum safety standards. These recalls can range from minor issues to serious safety hazards that could potentially cause accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.
In most states, dealers are not explicitly prohibited from selling used vehicles with open recalls. However, they are generally required to disclose known material facts about a vehicle’s condition. Selling a recalled vehicle without disclosure may constitute:
- Misrepresentation or fraud if the dealer actively concealed the recall status
- Violation of implied warranties that the vehicle is reasonably safe for its intended use
- Breach of express warranties if the dealer claimed the vehicle was inspected for safety
- Violation of state consumer protection laws that prohibit deceptive business practices
- Negligence is if the dealer failed to exercise reasonable care in their inspection process
Every case is unique, and your legal options will depend on factors such as whether the dealer knew about the recall, the nature of the safety defect, and whether you suffered actual damages.
Legal Remedies for Purchasing a Recalled Vehicle
If you discover your recently purchased vehicle has an open recall or undisclosed safety issue, you may have several legal remedies available.
Breach of Warranty Claims
Most vehicle sales include implied warranties of merchantability, meaning the vehicle should be reasonably safe and fit for transportation. When a dealer sells a car with an active safety recall without disclosure, they may be breaching this warranty. Additionally, if the dealer provided any express warranties regarding the vehicle’s safety or condition, these could form the basis of a legal claim.
Before pursuing a breach of warranty claim, review your purchase documents carefully. Some dealerships include “as-is” clauses attempting to disclaim these warranties, though consumer protection laws may limit their effectiveness in cases involving safety issues.
Consumer Protection Law Violations
Maryland’s Consumer Protection Act prohibits unfair or deceptive trade practices, including misrepresentations about a product’s characteristics or standards. Dealers who fail to disclose known safety recalls or misrepresent a vehicle’s condition may be violating these laws.
Consumer protection claims often allow for recovery of actual damages, attorney’s fees, and, in some cases, punitive damages intended to punish particularly egregious conduct.
Fraud and Misrepresentation Claims
If the dealer knowingly concealed information about a recall or safety defect, you might have grounds for a fraud claim. To succeed, you generally need to prove the dealer knew about the issue, intentionally concealed or misrepresented it, and you relied on that misrepresentation when purchasing the vehicle.
Fraud claims typically require more evidence of intentional wrongdoing but can potentially result in higher damage awards, including punitive damages in serious cases.
Protecting Yourself When Buying a Vehicle
The best protection against purchasing a recalled vehicle is thorough research before completing the purchase. Consider these preventative measures:
- Check the vehicle’s VIN on the NHTSA website to see if it has any open recalls
- Request service records and vehicle history reports before purchase
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to signing any agreements
- Get all dealer promises and representations about the vehicle’s condition in writing
- Review all documents thoroughly before signing, particularly anything referring to “as-is” sales
- Keep detailed records of all communications with the dealer regarding the vehicle’s condition
Taking these steps not only helps you avoid purchasing an unsafe vehicle but also strengthens your case if you later discover problems with the vehicle.
Contact an Experienced Maryland Auto Fraud Attorney
Discovering your newly purchased vehicle has an undisclosed recall or safety defect can be alarming and frustrating. As a former attorney for the MVA with over 30 years of experience, Hillel Traub has the knowledge to effectively represent consumers who have been victimized by auto dealer fraud in Maryland.
Don’t face this complex situation alone. For a thorough evaluation of your case and to discuss your legal options, call us at (410) 220-6976 or reach out through our contact form.
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