Few things are as anxiety-inducing as being stopped by a police officer and having your vehicle searched. While most people know their rights when it comes to unlawful searching by the police, the rules can change when the police suspect illegal activity, such as using alcohol or marijuana. Still, as marijuana has been decriminalized in Maryland, you could still be stopped by the police if they see the signs of marijuana use. It’s important to remember in this situation that you have rights.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub understands how stressful a police stop can be, especially if they find marijuana or suspect that you have been using it in your car. Despite marijuana being legal to use in Maryland, using it while operating your vehicle is not. We can help make sure your rights are protected.
- Police Searches and Maryland Law
- Marijuana Laws in Maryland
- Can Police Search Your Vehicle if They Smell Marijuana?
- Consult With an Experienced Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney
Police Searches and Maryland Law
Under Maryland law, there are generally four circumstances in which the police may search your vehicle after a traffic stop:
- You consented to the search of your vehicle.
- Probable cause, where the officer believes there could be evidence of a crime in the vehicle.
- A search is deemed necessary by the officer because there may be a dangerous item in the car.
- You have been arrested, and the search is related to the arrest.
Typically, one who commits a minor traffic offense, such as going a few miles over the speed limit or failing to use a turn signal, will not be asked for their permission to search the vehicle.
If you are stopped by the police, Maryland law has certain protections regarding the search of your vehicle. The law in Maryland follows the U.S. Constitution’s Fourth Amendment, which prohibits unlawful search and seizure. Again, the police may search your vehicle if they have “probable cause” of the possession of drugs—marijuana included—or the committing of a crime. However, even if the officer has probable cause, unless they have a warrant to search your vehicle, anything found during their search will likely be deemed as inadmissible.
Marijuana Laws in Maryland
Since 2014, the use of marijuana has been decriminalized in Maryland. However, that doesn’t mean that you won’t be punished if you are found in possession of it. In Maryland, possession of marijuana can carry the following penalties, depending on the circumstances:
- Possession of fewer than 10 grams carries a maximum $100 fine
- Possession of at least 10 grams is a misdemeanor with a possible $1,000 fine and up to 6 months in jail
Furthermore, if you are found to be operating your vehicle under the influence of marijuana or transporting marijuana in your car (which could be construed as trafficking or intent to distribute), the punishments are much harsher. These charges usually carry fines of up to $15,000 and jail time of up to 5 years.
Can Police Search Your Vehicle if They Smell Marijuana?
The answer to this question largely depends on the factors at play. The odor of marijuana has traditionally been considered enough to give the officer probable cause to search your vehicle, regardless of whether you consent. However, recent court rulings have held that the smell of marijuana, on its own, does not permit the police to search your vehicle.
Also, police must get a warrant to search your person, even if they suspect you have been using or are in possession of marijuana. An exception occurs usually if you have been arrested, or the officer feels the need to commence a quick search for weapons based on a “reasonable expectation” that you are armed. However, simply having the odor of marijuana coming from your car does not give police the right to search you.
Consult With an Experienced Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney
The consequences that can arise when a police officer stops your car and claims to smell marijuana can be heavy, but you may be able to stop the consequences of what happens next by enlisting the services of The Law Office of Hillel Traub. With over 20 years of experience defending clients against Maryland’s traffic and drug laws, Former MVA Lawyer Hillel Traub fiercely advocates for you, no matter how dire your case looks.
If you feel you have been unlawfully searched by the police, fill out our contact form or contact us at (410) 220-6976 for a free consultation.
Can I Purchase a Car with a Suspended License?
A suspended driver’s license typically presents roadblocks in daily life. From making it more challenging to get to and from places you need to go to restricting your personal freedom, many adverse effects usually follow the state’s decision to suspend a person’s driving privileges. Therefore, it sounds logical that in order to buy a new car, you’d need to have a valid license to prove to the seller you can legally drive your new vehicle. Oddly enough, while having a valid driver’s license would make the sale go more smoothly (and allow you to test drive the car and drive it home), you don’t need a valid license to purchase a vehicle in Maryland.
Why Would I Buy a Car without a Valid Driver’s License?
There are a few scenarios in which a person with a suspended license might want to purchase a vehicle. You might consider buying a car while your license is suspended when:
- Why Would I Buy a Car without a Valid Driver’s License?
- Is it Legal to Buy a Car while My License is Suspended?
- Get Behind the Wheel with the Help of a Suspended License Lawyer
- You have a loved one, friend, or employee available to drive you around until your license suspension ends.
- You are disabled and want to have a car for your caregiver to drive, but want to retain ownership of the vehicle.
- You own a business that requires a vehicle that licensed employees can drive.
- You would like to buy the car as a gift for someone who is licensed to drive.
- You have an underage child who has a license but is not old enough yet to finance the vehicle.
- You wish to purchase a collectible car which you have no intention of driving.
You might hit a snag when you attempt to close the sale without a valid license, but a conversation with the seller or sales manager of the dealership should make it clear that, while you will be purchasing the car, you will not be driving it yourself. As long as you have the funds or access to financing, the seller should work with you.
Is it Legal to Buy a Car while My License is Suspended?
If you have thought about buying a car but the state suspended your license, all hope is not lost. There is no law preventing you from having a valid driver’s license to buy a car; however, you won’t be able to execute a test drive or drive it home yourself unless you’ve obtained a temporary license to drive to and from work. On the whole, it may be more difficult to get a title or insure a new vehicle with a suspended license.
Get Behind the Wheel with the Help of a Suspended License Lawyer
Baltimore suspended license lawyer Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has served Baltimore and the surrounding areas for more than 20 years, helping residents regain their driving privileges and personal freedom. As a former Maryland Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), he fully understands the process behind license suspensions in the state and can fight aggressively against your suspension.
There are many reasons your license may be suspended in Maryland, many of which have nothing to do with your ability as a driver. For that reason, contact attorney Hillel Traub as soon as the MVA notifies you of your license suspension. His insider knowledge of the MVA’s inner workings will help him achieve his goal of overturning or reducing the period of your suspension. Call (410) 220-6976 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
Holding a driver’s license in Maryland comes with the responsibility of adhering to traffic laws to retain a clean driving record. Unfortunately, with just one wrong move behind the wheel, you could face lasting consequences that extend far beyond the initial citation. Accumulating eight points on your license from a single traffic violation in Maryland can lead to significant challenges, including increased insurance premiums, mandatory driver improvement programs, and even the suspension of your driving privileges.
If you are facing the possibility of accruing eight points on your license from a single traffic violation in Maryland, do not wait to seek legal guidance. It only takes one traffic violation to jeopardize your driving record and financial well-being. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of Maryland’s traffic laws and minimizing the impact of the violation on your driving record and future.
- What To Know About Maryland’s Driver’s License Points System
- Traffic Violations That Result in 8 Points on Your Maryland Driver’s License
- Schedule a Free Consultation with a Skilled Maryland Traffic Violation Lawyer Today
What To Know About Maryland’s Driver’s License Points System
Maryland employs a point system to track and penalize traffic violations. Under this system, each traffic offense is assigned a specific point value, ranging from 1 to 12 points, depending on the severity of the violation. While most minor violations carry minimal point assessments, certain offenses are considered more serious and can lead to higher point totals on a driver’s record.
Points remain on your driving record for a certain period, typically two years from the date of the offense. As drivers in Maryland accumulate points, they face consequences such as increased insurance premiums, the requirement to attend driver improvement programs, and even license suspension in severe cases.
Traffic Violations That Result in 8 Points on Your Maryland Driver’s License
In Maryland, several violations can result in eight points being added to your license from a single infraction. These include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI/DWI)
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage
- Fleeing or eluding law enforcement officers
These offenses are considered major violations under Maryland law because they have the potential to endanger public safety and warrant significant penalties. As such, drivers found guilty of these offenses can expect harsh repercussions.
Drivers may face potential fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges, but they may also experience significant increases in their auto insurance premiums. Insurers view drivers with high point totals as higher-risk clients, leading to higher premiums to offset the increased likelihood of future claims.
If you find yourself facing a point violation in Maryland, it’s essential to take prompt and decisive action to address the situation. Seek legal counsel from an experienced traffic violation attorney who can help you understand your rights, explore potential defenses, and represent your interests in court, working to mitigate the impact on your driving record and insurance rates.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Skilled Maryland Traffic Violation Lawyer Today
Receiving eight points on your license from a single traffic violation in Maryland is not something to take lightly. If you are facing the potential consequences of accumulating points on your license, The Law Office of Hillel Traub can help protect your rights.
Attorney Hillel Traub, with over 30 years of experience and a background as a former lawyer for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), is here to advocate for you. Schedule a free consultation with Attorney Traub and get the guidance you need to address your traffic violation effectively. Call (410) 709-6786 or reach out to us through our website to get started.
Can I Be Fined for Driving While Drowsy in Maryland?
While not one of the more obvious dangers, drowsy drivers who choose to get behind the wheel are risking their own lives as well as the lives of fellow drivers. Each year, drowsy driving accounts for about 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries, and 1,550 fatalities, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). These crashes led to an estimated 50,000 people injured and nearly 800 deaths.
Dangers of Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving occurs so frequently because sleep deprivation has become an increasingly common problem. People often begin their morning work commute after a poor night’s sleep—and those driving long distances often push themselves to go greater distances without breaks. Drivers don’t realize how much fatigue impacts their driving reactions and ability to focus on the road. Drowsy driving accidents usually share the following common characteristics:
- Dangers of Drowsy Driving
- Maryland Law and Drowsy Driving
- Who is Most Affected by Drowsy Driving?
- Contact a Skilled Maryland Drowsy Driving Accident Attorney
- Occur most frequently between midnight and 6 a.m., or in the late afternoon. At both times of the day, people experience dips in their body’s internal clock that regulates sleep.
- Often involve only a single driver (and no passengers) running off the road at a high rate of speed with no evidence of braking
- Frequently occurs on rural roads and highways
Additionally, drowsy driving can also lead to the following:
- Impaired judgment and reaction time
- Increased aggression
- Difficulties with short-term memory
- Loss of vigilance
- Falling asleep at the wheel
It’s not always easy to recognize that you’re too tired to drive. If you’re concerned you have not had enough sleep, even if you feel fine, try to avoid driving. If you get tired while driving, consider pulling over until the wave of tiredness subsides.
Maryland Law and Drowsy Driving
Currently, there is no official law against driving while drowsy in Maryland. However, police officers are trained and drilled on how to spot fatigued drivers, including the following warning signs:
- Yawning and rubbing of eyes
- Blinking frequently or having difficulty focusing eyes
- Disconnected thoughts, not remembering the last few miles that have been driven, or missing exits
- Trouble keeping the head erect
- Drifting out of the lane and running over rumble strips
If you exhibit these signs and believe you are in danger of drifting off behind the wheel, you should stop driving immediately. If you simply cannot nap, ask someone else to drive or, if you are alone, take a break and consume some caffeine. Sometimes opening the window or playing the radio is effective, but these measures generally work only for a short time.
If you are pulled over by the police after exhibiting any of the above, you will likely be cited for reckless driving or something similar.
Who is Most Affected by Drowsy Driving?
Any driver can potentially fall asleep behind the wheel, but certain groups are at higher risk for drowsy driving because they tend to drive later at night, and they include the following:
- Shift workers
- Business travelers
- Commercial drivers, including truckers
- Young drivers
- Airline workers
Most companies are made to follow regulations for driving hours to help their drivers avoid drowsy driving. Consult with your employer to learn about these regulations.
Contact a Skilled Maryland Drowsy Driving Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car crash that was the result of a drowsy driver, the drowsy driving accident lawyers at Hillel Traub can help. We understand the confusion and pain that often follows a severe car accident, which is why we provide all of our clients with the personalized, compassionate legal representation that they deserve.
We will take care of your legal concerns while you recover and return to normal life. Contact us in Baltimore at (410) 709-6786 for a free consultation or contact us through our website.
Can a Speeding Ticket Hurt My Job Prospects?
Searching for a job can often come with feelings of stress and anxiety. While a speeding ticket may not completely deter a company from hiring you, it may impact whether you qualify for certain positions. Suppose you are applying for a truck driver position. The company may express concerns about your past driving record and how that may affect your ability to perform your daily duties.
Even if a company offers you the ability to explain the ticket, they may still hire another candidate without a driving record. To help navigate what a speeding ticket could mean for you, contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub today. Our lawyer can assist you with any questions you may have.
- How a Speeding Ticket Could Hurt Your Job Prospects
- Satisfying Your Maryland Traffic Citation
- Speak With an Experienced Maryland Defense Attorney at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
How a Speeding Ticket Could Hurt Your Job Prospects
Law enforcement officers aren’t the only authority to issue speeding tickets. With Maryland implementing speed cameras, speeding tickets are becoming more and more common throughout the state. Consider the following factors that a speeding ticket may impact while you are job hunting:
Commercial Driver License Holder
For commercial driver’s license holders, a speeding ticket may fall under a serious or major traffic violation. While one serious violation may not stop you from driving a commercial vehicle, two violations in a 3-year period may cause a 60-day disqualification. If the traffic violation is major, it may result in a 1-year disqualification. When a second violation occurs, the individual may suffer permanent disqualification.
Employers With Point Limits
Some employers have point limits when a position requires driving. If an individual has a certain amount of points on their driving record, they may lose their license or be disqualified from operating a vehicle for the company.
Employer Insurance Coverage
When an individual receives an expensive traffic violation, their insurance coverage increases, and an employer may choose not to work with them due to significant charges. Companies who pay insurance premiums may face increased payments for individuals with traffic violations on their records and may want to avoid these situations.
Background Checks
Many employers will perform a background check on potential prospects. If a potential employer sees a speeding ticket on your record, they may judge your reliability and whether you are able to properly perform the necessary tasks for the position.
The first step in determining the severity of your traffic violation is to access your citation information. By using Maryland Courts’ Case Search, you can learn more details about the citation and its status.
Satisfying Your Maryland Traffic Citation
There are two types of Maryland traffic citations, including “payable” and “must appear” citations. For must appear violations, you will receive an automatic trial date notice. If you receive a payable traffic citation, you have 30 days to complete one of the following options:
- Pay the full fine and plead guilty
- Request to enter into a payment plan
- Ask for a waived hearing to plead guilty with an explanation
- Ask for a trial to plead not guilty
If you choose to plead guilty and pay the fine on your citation, the violation will show up on your driving record and harm your potential job prospects. Before you make your decision, discuss your options with a highly-qualified attorney.
Speak With an Experienced Maryland Defense Attorney at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
A simple mistake shouldn’t influence and harm your job prospects. Our attorney at The Law Office of Hillel Traub, who was a former lawyer from MVA, has years of experience protecting Maryland residents’ rights. With positive client reviews and peer recognition, our award-winning attorney will protect and advocate for your rights.
Speak with our firm by calling (410) 709-6786 or filling out our contact form today.
During a driving under the influence (DUI) traffic stop, it is common for a Maryland police officer to administer a roadside breathalyzer test. Then, officers often take DUI suspects to a police station upon an arrest to conduct a more scientific breath test, the results of which may be used as evidence in a DUI case.
Maryland police officers rely on these tests to gauge drivers’ blood alcohol content (BAC) and sobriety. Maryland state prosecutors then use the results to build a criminal case against the driver. However, too many people do not realize that the machines that produce these results may be prone to a variety of errors, which may produce inaccurate results. An experienced Maryland DUI defense attorney can examine the administration of the breath test to check if anything could have caused a false reading.
- How Can a DUI Defense Attorney Challenge a Breath Test?
- Contact an Experienced Maryland DUI Defense Attorney Today
How Can a DUI Defense Attorney Challenge a Breath Test?
When administering a breath test, there are numerous procedures that officers must follow by the book. If they fail to follow all regulations, your defense attorney might be able to use that in your defense, which may lead a judge to dismiss your DUI charge. Furthermore, various factors could contribute to a false positive result. Continue reading to learn more about factors that can cause a false positive and how your attorney can use it as a defense.
Breath Test Procedures
Properly administering a breath test is a vital aspect of the prosecution’s case and must occur within two hours of the stop. The police officer must observe the individual the entire time they administer the test. There must be a 20-minute observation window to ensure that the driver has not thrown up, they have not put anything in their mouths during that time, and their mouth is clean.
Additionally, if the DUI stop was at a scheduled checkpoint, an attorney can question whether police officers followed all procedures. For example, for a Maryland DUI checkpoint to be legal, officers must notify the public in advance. There must be signs warning drivers about the checkpoint, and they must have a random process for checking vehicles. If cops do not follow even one of these rules, the checkpoint becomes illegal, and a defense attorney can use it as part of their defense.
Improper Certification and Testing of Machines
The breathalyzers that produce results to be used as evidence in DUI cases must be regularly calibrated and tested to ensure that they are working correctly. Police officers must clean, maintain, and update them according to a rigid schedule. If there is a flaw in one machine, they cannot use the results of that machine to bring charges against an individual. A Maryland DUI defense attorney may call into question the maintenance and care of the device.
Body Temperature May Affect Results
A driver’s core body temperature might influence the results of a breath test. Remember, breath tests measure the amount of alcohol present in a person’s breath to calculate how much alcohol is in their blood. When calculating a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading, the system assumes a static relationship of alcohol in the breath to blood—which is not correct. If someone’s body temperature is high, it could impact the breathalyzer’s reading. For every degree above the average body temperature, the margin of error could increase by up to 7%.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
One of the most prominent conditions that could lead to a breath test error is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD occurs when acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus due to issues in the digestive tract, which can result in a false positive reading. If the individual has documentation regarding their disease, an attorney may question the test’s accuracy. However, your attorney will likely need your doctor to testify on your behalf.
Contact an Experienced Maryland DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you face DUI charges and believe they stemmed from a faulty breathalyzer or false reading, contact the Law Office of Hillel Traub. Attorney Hillel Traub is a passionate advocate defending all types of traffic violations, including DUI charges. Proudly serving the Maryland community for more than 20 years, Attorney Traub will take every step possible and explore all available options when defending you. To schedule a free consultation, call (410) 709-6786 or complete our contact form.
Can a DUI Affect My Child Custody in Maryland?
Getting a DUI in Maryland can impact many areas of your life, and family court matters are no exception. Dealing with a bitter divorce and child custody battle can be extremely painful. This leads some people to self-medicate with alcohol, raising the risk of getting a DUI. While this is common, it can negatively impact your child custody dispute. Getting charged with a DUI could show a lack of responsibility and put your custody rights in jeopardy.
How a DUI Can Affect Your Child Custody Dispute in Maryland
In a child custody battle, the judge looks over evidence to determine which living situation is in the children’s best interest. The judge will consider both parents’ financial situation, relationships with the children, stability of the home environment, and criminal history.
- How a DUI Can Affect Your Child Custody Dispute in Maryland
- Do I Have to Be Convicted for a DUI to Affect My Child Custody Dispute?
- What Can I Do If I Am Charged with a DUI during My Child Custody Dispute?
- Contact an Experienced Maryland DUI Attorney
If one parent has a stable job, home situation, and clean criminal history, and the other has a drunk driving charge; the judge will likely favor the parent with no DUIs. A judge could potentially see a DUI charge as a deeper issue, like an addiction or dependence on alcohol. A DUI charge could be used to rule that the parent is not able to care for their child.
Do I Have to Be Convicted for a DUI to Affect My Child Custody Dispute?
It is a common misconception that criminal charges are irrelevant unless there is a conviction. A charge alone can weigh heavily on a case in civil courts because there are different standards of proof in civil and criminal courtrooms.
In criminal court, the state must prove that you were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a high standard that can sometimes be difficult to meet. However, civil courts use the preponderance of evidence standard. This means that the other side only has to prove that it was more likely than not that you were under the influence when you got behind the wheel. This standard can work against you, especially in child custody cases where the judge has broad discretion on which home and parent’s care is in the best interest of the children involved.
What Can I Do If I Am Charged with a DUI during My Child Custody Dispute?
To avoid a DUI charge and potential harm to your custody dispute, the best practice is never to drink and drive. However, if you are arrested for a DUI, calling a lawyer can give you options and may lessen the impact on your custody dispute.
If the DUI is your first offense, your lawyer may be able to negotiate a less severe charge like reckless driving if you agree to certain conditions. Contacting an experienced DUI lawyer can help you discover the best path forward after a DUI as you navigate your child custody dispute.
Contact an Experienced Maryland DUI Attorney
After getting pulled over for a DUI, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. The Law Firm of Hillel Traub knows how severely a DUI can impact your life and custody dispute. Our attorneys are dedicated to doing everything in their power to bring your case to a favorable conclusion. Call our office at (410) 709-6786 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation.
On March 30, 2020, the State of Maryland issued a mandatory Stay At Home order for all residents to protect them from and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, a new disease caused by the CoV-SARS-2 coronavirus first identified in the city of Wuhan, capital of the Hubei province in China, in December of last year.
COVID-19 is spreading aggressively throughout the United States, and people of all ages can be afflicted, although the elderly and people with preexisting conditions — like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease — are at a higher risk of becoming severely ill. The most recent numbers report 4,045 cases in Maryland, with 91 deaths as of April 6, 2020. The statewide Stay At Home order, implemented by Gov. Larry Hogan, aims to reduce the spread of the disease.
As of right now, Marylanders may not leave their homes for reasons that are not essential and could face a severe penalty for doing so.
“All persons living in the State of Maryland are hereby ordered, effective as of
8:00 p.m. on March 30, 2020, to stay in their homes or places of residences
(“Homes”) except:
I. to conduct or participate in Essential Activities (defined below);
Ii. staff and owners of businesses and organizations that are not required to
close pursuant to paragraph IV or paragraph V below may travel:
between their Homes and those businesses and organizations; and
to and from customers for the purpose of delivering goods or
performing services; and
Iii. staff and owners of Non-Essential Businesses (defined below) may travel:
between their Homes and those Non-Essential Businesses for the
purpose of engaging in Minimal Operations; and
to and from customers for the purpose of delivering goods.”
To read the governor’s full executive order regarding COVID-19 in Maryland, click here:
Main Highlights of Maryland’s Stay At Home Order
When did the order go into place?
Maryland’s Stay At Home Order began at 8 p.m. on March 30, 2020.
When will the order be lifted?
The order will be in effect until the termination of the state’s State of Emergency.
What are the violations and penalties associated with the order?
A violation of Maryland’s Stay At Home order is a misdemeanor offense that may lead to:
- Up to one year in jail
- A fine of up to $5,000
What kind of order is it?
Maryland issued a statewide Stay At Home order, meaning that residents may not leave their homes unless they need to, such as to obtain food, medicine, urgent medical care, and other essential reasons.
What are the essential businesses?
Essential businesses are those listed in the Department of Homeland Security’s Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce. These may include pharmacies, grocery stores, hospitals, pet stores, gas stations, post offices, and other businesses that facilitate necessary day-to-day activities.
Examples of non-essential businesses include movie theaters, clothing stores, gyms, restaurants and bars (except for delivery or takeout), museums, concert halls, and others.
Contact Hillel Traub for Legal Representation
As police officers are becoming more strict about the Stay At Home order, they may be more inclined to question citizens for going out in public. If you’re accused of violating the Stay At Home order and are charged with a misdemeanor crime, you could face severe penalties that can affect you for years to come.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub serves residents of Baltimore and surrounding areas by providing competent criminal defense with personal attention to each case. Attorney Hillel Traub has more than 20 years of experience challenging criminal accusations against his clients and has worked as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. Find out how he can help you overcome your charges by calling (410) 709-6786 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.
Baltimore Brings Back Speed Cameras
Getting a traffic ticket in the mail without ever having been stopped by a police officer is an unpleasant way of finding out you committed a traffic violation. Unfortunately, Baltimore’s residents were subjected to an unfair traffic camera system a few years ago. That system was discontinued in 2013 due to erroneous tickets being issued. This year, a new network of speed and red light cameras launched in February and continues to expand.
Information About Baltimore’s Speeding Cameras
- What’s so great about this new camera system?
- Where are the new speed cameras?
- Will I get a ticket if I speed near a speed camera?
What’s so great about this new camera system?
Baltimore’s old camera network contained 83 speed cameras and 81 red light cameras that generated millions of dollars for the city each year; however, these cameras frequently issued bad tickets. In one case, a stalled car was flagged for speeding. A year later, the Maryland General Assembly passed a law imposing new restrictions on jurisdictions that operate speed cameras, including the implementation of a ban on paying contractors for each ticket issued.
- Information About Baltimore’s Speeding Cameras
- What’s so great about this new camera system?
- Where are the new speed cameras?
- Will I get a ticket if I speed near a speed camera?
- Fight Your Speeding Ticket
The problems with the old system were ultimately pinned on contractors. The new camera network is more tightly regulated. When a driver is flagged, a dedicated team with the Maryland Department of Transportation reviews each violation before issuing citations by mail. The city expects the new technology and the support of the DOT will lead to a more accurate camera network.
Where are the new speed cameras?
Portable speed cameras have been placed near several schools; the locations were selected based on accident data, a history of violations, and community requests. The cameras are active between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday-Friday, throughout the year.
Will I get a ticket if I speed near a speed camera?
Drivers who travel at 12 or more miles per hour over the speed limit will be flagged. Any speed violation that occurs within a camera’s first 30 days of operation will result in a warning. Afterward, each violation will result in a $40 fine.
Unlike other citations, tickets from speed cameras will not result in points against your license and your insurance company will not be notified. Payments may be made by mail or online. Failing to respond to the traffic ticket, however, may result in additional penalties.
Fight Your Speeding Ticket
No matter how much effort goes into creating infallible traffic cameras, there’s always the possibility that a camera and/or a member of the Maryland DOT wrongfully cited you for speeding. These camera networks are just as much a safety measure as they are a money making scheme for the city of Baltimore. Fight back against your ticket with the help of a traffic lawyer who fights charges in Baltimore and surrounding areas.
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has extensive experience fighting excessive speeding charges and helping drivers maintain clean driving records. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he understands the inner workings of the organizations that want to penalize you for speeding. Find out how he can help you by calling (410) 709-6786 or completing our contact form.
Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) are how many people earn a living, provide for their families, and keep their careers moving forward. Unfortunately, any traffic stop, ticket, or misunderstanding on the road can threaten to take it away. For those dependent on their license, losing a CDL means lost income, opportunities, and a way of life.
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we understand how crucial your CDL is to your livelihood. Attorney Hillel Traub has over 30 years of experience working with commercial drivers across Maryland, helping them tackle a wide range of traffic violations that could put their licenses at risk. Whether you are facing a ticket, a compliance issue, or a more serious infraction, Attorney Hillel Traub is here to guide you through the legal process and help you keep your license intact.
- Common Offenses That Threaten Your CDL
- 3 Tips to Avoid Losing Your CDL
- What to Do If You Are Facing CDL Suspension
- Protecting Your CDL with Help from The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Common Offenses That Threaten Your CDL
CDL holders are subject to stricter regulations than non-commercial drivers. Some common offenses that could put your CDL at risk include:
- Speeding violations, especially in construction zones or residential areas
- Driving under the influence (DUI) or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the legal limit for CDL holders (0.04% in Maryland)
- Traffic violations that occur while operating a commercial vehicle, such as failing to stop at a railroad crossing or reckless driving
- Serious moving violations, like tailgating or improper lane changes
- Violating out-of-service orders
Even if these infractions occur while driving your personal vehicle, they may still impact your CDL.
3 Tips to Avoid Losing Your CDL
Staying vigilant and proactive is essential for protecting your CDL. Here are several tips that can help you stay compliant with Maryland’s rules and regulations for commercial drivers:
Know the Regulations
Commercial drivers are held to high standards, and you must familiarize yourself with all the rules specific to Maryland CDL holders. This includes understanding weight limits, traffic rules, and special requirements like inspections and rest breaks. Ignorance of the law is not a defense, so staying educated can be your best protection.
Keep Your Records Up to Date
Always ensure that your CDL and any endorsements or certifications are current. Failing to renew your license or certification on time could lead to disqualification or penalties that may affect your ability to drive commercially.
Maintain a Clean Driving Record
Traffic violations can add up quickly, and accumulating points on your driving record could lead to your CDL being suspended or revoked. Avoid risky behaviors such as speeding or using a mobile device while driving, as these can result in fines and points that jeopardize your license.
What to Do If You Are Facing CDL Suspension
Despite your best efforts to follow the rules of the road, you may face the possibility of a CDL suspension due to a traffic violation, an accident, or another infraction. In these cases, acting quickly and taking the necessary steps to protect your license and livelihood is important.
Your first step should be to meet with an experienced attorney who understands Maryland’s CDL regulations and the complexities involved in these cases. They can thoroughly review the details of your situation, determine what legal options are available, and offer practical advice on the best course of action. Your attorney may be able to negotiate with authorities to reduce penalties, challenge the evidence against you, or present a strong case to help you retain your license.
Protecting Your CDL with Help from The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Losing a CDL can be devastating for commercial drivers, but it’s possible to prevent that outcome with the right legal guidance. The Law Office of Hillel Traub has over 30 years of experience helping CDL drivers throughout Maryland fight traffic violations that threaten their livelihood. Whether facing a serious infraction or a potential suspension, Attorney Traub can review the circumstances and offer strategic advice on protecting your driving privileges.
If you’re facing the possibility of losing your CDL, don’t wait. Contact Attorney Hillel Traub at (410) 709-6786 or through our contact form to discuss how he may be able to help.
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