It has been reported that in the United States, there are over 287.3 million registered vehicles on the roads. In order to operate a motor vehicle, that car is required to be registered before you get behind the wheel. If you choose to drive a vehicle that has not been registered, you may face legal repercussions as a result.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a traffic violations law firm helping clients in Maryland who have been caught driving a vehicle that is not registered. Attorney Hillel Traub understands that each case is unique and that there are many reasons why a person may be driving without a registration. It is crucial that you understand what could happen if you do not register your vehicle before driving it in Maryland.
- What Is the Law Concerning Vehicle Registration in Maryland?
- What Are the Consequences of Driving an Unregistered Vehicle?
- Get Help From a Maryland Registration Attorney Today
What Is the Law Concerning Vehicle Registration in Maryland?
Under the Maryland transportation code, it is stated that the act of driving or knowingly allowing a vehicle to be driven without a registration is a criminal misdemeanor. This remains the case regardless of if the vehicle:
- Was never registered
- Has expired plates
- The registration was suspended
- The registration was revoked
In addition to being illegal, when a person operates a motor vehicle without a registration, you may also be putting yourself at risk. This is due to the fact that without a registration, you cannot carry liability insurance in the event that you are in an accident. This can result in you having to pay for any damages like medical expenses, lost wages, or property damage out of pocket following the crash.
If you have been pulled over and ticketed for driving a car without a registration, an experienced Maryland registration attorney may be able to help. If you were the owner of the vehicle being driven without a registration, the court would have to prove that you knowingly allowed the vehicle to be driven regardless of the lack of registration. A knowledgeable attorney can help you regardless of if you were the individual driving the unregistered vehicle or not.
What Are the Consequences of Driving an Unregistered Vehicle?
There are many different reasons that a person may not register their vehicle. One reason is that a driver may have simply forgotten to have their vehicle registered within the required timeframe or let the registration lapse by mistake. Another reason could be that a person has an outstanding warrant in Maryland. In this case, they may be fearful of having the vehicle registered due to the fact that it could lead to their arrest. Whatever the reason behind why someone did not have their vehicle registered, it is still a criminal misdemeanor and may result in serious penalties:
- Costly fines
- Driver’s license suspended
- Driver’s license revoked
- Restrictions on your driving privileges
- Registration suspended
- Registration revoked
Regardless of why you drove or allowed someone else to drive a vehicle without a registration, an experienced registration attorney may be able to help you avoid serious penalties by going over the details of your case.
Get Help From a Maryland Registration Attorney Today
If you have been caught driving an unregistered car in Maryland, you may be charged with a criminal misdemeanor and face legal repercussions like costly fines or license suspension. To avoid these penalties, contact a trusted registration attorney who may be able to help with your defense.
The penalties for traffic violations like driving a vehicle without a registration negatively affect your daily life. Attorney Hillel Traub is an expert in Maryland’s MVA practices and in resolving traffic cases. We are here to help you defend your traffic offenses, no matter what your record looks like. Contact us using our online contact form or give us a call at (410) 553-5050 for your free consultation.
Driving without a license in Maryland can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Whether your license is expired, suspended, or you never obtained one, getting caught behind the wheel without proper authorization can result in fines, points on your record, and even potential jail time.
Beyond fines and penalties, you could face increased insurance costs and complications if you’re involved in an accident. With over 30 years of experience handling traffic violations, Attorney Hillel Traub understands the complexities of Maryland’s traffic laws and how to navigate these cases effectively. Whether you’re facing charges for driving without a license or another traffic offense, having knowledgeable legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
- The Penalties for Driving Without a License in Maryland
- What to Do If You Are Caught Driving Without a License
- Protect Your Driving Privileges with The Law Office of Hillel Traub
The Penalties for Driving Without a License in Maryland
Maryland law (§ 16-101 of the Transportation Code) prohibits any individual from operating a motor vehicle on public roads without a valid driver’s license.
The law applies to all drivers, whether they never obtained a license or had one that has expired, been suspended, or was revoked. If you are caught driving without a valid license, you could face penalties such as:
First-Time Offense
Operating a motor vehicle without ever having obtained a license may result in:
- A fine of up to $500
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Five points added to your driving record
While first-time offenses may not always lead to jail time, adding points to your record can increase insurance rates and create further complications when applying for a license in the future.
Repeated Offenses
A second or subsequent offense for driving without a license carries:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Up to one year in jail
- Additional points on your driving record
Multiple violations can make it much harder to legally obtain a license later, as they demonstrate a pattern of disregarding Maryland’s traffic laws.
Driving with an Expired License
If your license has expired and you are pulled over, you could be fined and issued a citation. While this is less severe than driving without a license, repeat offenses can lead to harsher penalties.
Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License
Driving with a suspended or revoked license is considered a more serious offense and can result in:
- Heavier fines
- Increased jail time (up to one year for a first offense)
- Longer license suspension or revocation periods
Beyond the immediate fines and possible jail time, driving after your license has been suspended or revoked can create long-term challenges.
What to Do If You Are Caught Driving Without a License
If you are pulled over and do not have a valid license, the best approach is to remain calm and cooperative with law enforcement. Providing false information or resisting the officer’s requests can lead to additional charges.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have legal defenses available. For example, if your license has expired but you were in the process of renewing it, or if you were unaware of a suspension, an attorney may be able to argue for reduced penalties.
Taking proactive steps after receiving a citation can help mitigate the long-term consequences and put you on the right path to legally operating a vehicle.
Protect Your Driving Privileges with The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Facing charges for driving without a license in Maryland can have lasting consequences, from steep fines to potential jail time. Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming whether your license was suspended, expired, or never obtained. Attorney Hillel Traub has over 30 years of experience handling Maryland traffic violations and understands how to approach these cases strategically. He can help minimize penalties, protect your driving record, and work toward restoring your driving privileges.
Don’t let a traffic violation jeopardize your future. Having the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. As a former lawyer for the Maryland MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub knows how these cases are handled and what it takes to build a strong defense. Call (410) 553-5050 or reach out through our contact form to discuss your case.
There are many laws and regulations surrounding driving a vehicle in Maryland. Occasionally, vital details may be overlooked, such as maintaining or obtaining a valid car registration. Under Maryland law, registering your vehicle with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is mandated to ensure fees are paid and that the vehicle meets safety and emission standards. If you were stopped in a vehicle without a valid car registration, you may face criminal misdemeanor charges, hefty fines, and other potential consequences.
Under Maryland statute MD Transp Code § 27-101 (2010), it is a criminal misdemeanor to drive with an unregistered vehicle. If you have received a traffic violation for driving without valid registration, retain an experienced traffic violations lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub to protect your legal rights and driving privileges. We have over 20 years of experience and a track record of proven results, defending clients in the most complex traffic violation cases.
- Penalties for Driving Without a Car Registration in Maryland
- Possible Defenses for Driving Without a Car Registration in Maryland
- Speak With an Experienced Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Penalties for Driving Without a Car Registration in Maryland
In Maryland, drivers must register their vehicles in order to drive legally. Without registration, the state may not know if the car is safe to drive, meets emissions standards, or has bi-annual fees paid. A driver may incur significant penalties if they drive with an unregistered car, including a negative mark on their driving record. Whether your vehicle was never registered, has expired license plates, or the registration was suspended or revoked, you may face a fine of up to $500. A suspended, expired, or invalid registration is commonly the reason an officer initiates a traffic stop, but other violations can be discovered and cited after that.
In addition to a criminal conviction, driving without a registration often coincides with driving without insurance and is a more serious violation in Maryland. If you face charges for either or both offenses, it is in your best interest to retain a skilled traffic violations lawyer to help you understand the charges you may be facing and possible defenses in your unique circumstances.
Possible Defenses for Driving Without a Car Registration in Maryland
There are various defenses for driving without a car registration in Maryland, such as failing to register in the designated time frame or accidentally letting the registration lapse. Depending on your unique circumstances, an experienced traffic violations lawyer may help evaluate your case and determine the best course forward for a favorable outcome.
Other possible defenses to driving without a car registration may include the following:
- The vehicle mistakenly appeared unregistered during a traffic stop
- You did not receive notice from the MVA that your registration was suspended
- You had no knowledge of the suspension of your registration
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we may help you determine which defenses may be best for your unique case. With a record of proven results, we are prepared to help protect your legal rights.
Speak With an Experienced Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
There are various reasons why you may have failed to register your vehicle. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we have over 20 years of experience helping clients achieve favorable outcomes in the most complex traffic violation cases. We handle your case meticulously and competently so you can rest assured that your legal rights are protected. Attorney Hillel Traub is a former lawyer from MVA with an exceptional track record of success.
Schedule a no-cost consultation by calling (410) 553-5050 or filling out our contact form to obtain legal guidance regarding your best legal options forward.
After a car or truck accident in Maryland, an investigation will occur shortly after discovering whether a traffic offense occurred. If law enforcement finds that the driver who caused the accident also violated Maryland’s traffic laws, he or she may face both criminal and civil penalties. Those penalties may include monetary fines and a driver’s license suspension. If authorities learn that the driver was under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash, the driver could face the previously mentioned penalties and possible prison time.
What Are the Penalties for General Traffic Offenses in Maryland?
Penalties for drivers who violate general traffic laws in Maryland are detailed under the Maryland Code of Transportation § 27-101. In most instances, a traffic violation is considered a misdemeanor offense. Penalties for a misdemeanor offense are typically punishable by a maximum fine of $500.
- What Are the Penalties for General Traffic Offenses in Maryland?
- What are the Penalties for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Maryland?
- What are the Penalties for Failing to Pay Traffic Fines in Maryland?
- What are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence?
- Contact an Experienced Criminal Traffic Attorney in Baltimore After a Traffic Offense
What are the Penalties for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in Maryland?
Law enforcement in Maryland takes the act of driving on a suspended or revoked license seriously. This offense is a misdemeanor. Those stopped are normally arrested on the spot, since this is a criminal violation of Statute §16-303 of the Maryland Transportation Code.
After being arrested for driving on a suspended or revoked license, the prosecution will attempt to prove that you decided to drive, knowing that your driving privileges were suspended or revoked.
The penalties for driving on a suspended or revoked license in Maryland are detailed below:
● First Offense: At a minimum, first-time offenders face $500 – $1,000 in fines and two months to one year in jail.
● Second Offense: Violators can face up to two years in jail and $2,000 in fine
In addition to these penalties, those arrested for driving on a suspended or revoked license are punished with a maximum of 12 points on their license. At this point, their license becomes instantly revoked.
What are the Penalties for Failing to Pay Traffic Fines in Maryland?
Failing to pay fines for a state or federal traffic infringement can result in a license suspension if left unpaid. After a window of time has passed, the state courts will file a report with the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). At that point, the MVA allows delinquent drivers to pay their fines within ten days. If drivers still do not pay traffic fines due, the MVA suspends that person’s driver’s license.
Many times, drivers in Maryland forget or aren’t aware they have a past due fines they must pay for traffic violations. If a person’s license becomes suspended due to a lack of payment, their driving privileges will be restored once they pay the required fines.
What are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence?
Penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are severe in Maryland. Any driver who’s found to be drunk or drugged while driving can face the following penalties:
● First Conviction: Violators face criminal fines between $500 – $2,000 with a prison sentence ranging from two months to two years.
● Second Conviction: Violators face criminal fines between $500 – $3,000 with a prison sentence ranging from one to three years.
● Third or Following Conviction: Violators face criminal fines between $3,000 – $4,000 with a prison sentence ranging from three to four years.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Traffic Attorney in Baltimore After a Traffic Offense
If you have questions about the criminal penalties stemming from a traffic offense in Maryland, The Law Office of Hillel Traub can help. Attorney Hillel Traub has extensive experience defending all types of traffic offenses throughout Baltimore and the state of Maryland. With specific experience working as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he has insider information of the MVA’s internal operations that can be a significant advantage to your case. To schedule a free consultation with Hillel Traub, complete an online contact form or call today at (410) 850-1100.
There are many different reasons a person may have their license suspended in Maryland. Each year, several million people in the United States have their licenses suspended. This penalty is serious and can affect a person’s ability to commute to their job or other locations that require someone to drive and could lead to jail time.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a traffic violations law firm helping clients who have been caught driving with a suspended license in Maryland. If your license has been suspended, it is important that you know what penalties you may be facing if you choose to drive before your license is reinstated.
- What Are the Consequences for Driving With a Suspended License?
- How Can a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer Help?
- Contact a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer Today
What Are the Consequences for Driving With a Suspended License?
When a driver has their license suspended, they may still be able to have their license reinstated depending on the terms of why they had their licenses suspended in the first place. However, when you are caught driving with a suspended license, you may be facing serious penalties that could result in having your license suspended for a longer period of time or revoked altogether. The penalties you may face if you drive with a suspended license in Maryland include:
- First Offense: Depending on the details of your case, you may receive up to a year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and five MVA points.
- Second or Subsequent Offense: You may receive up to two years in jail, a maximum fine of $2,000, and an additional five MVA points.
In addition to facing penalties for driving with a suspended license, you may be facing additional consequences due to the fact that drivers with suspended licenses may not hold liability insurance. As a result, you may also face another jailable offense for driving while uninsured. This may result in an extended suspension on your license, having to pay higher insurance rates or license revocation. If you are concerned that you could be sentenced to severe legal penalties as a result of driving with a suspended license, it is important that you consult a traffic violations lawyer. When you work with a trusted lawyer, they may be able to have the charges against you reduced or dropped to help you avoid losing your license.
How Can a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer Help?
After being charged with driving with a suspended license, you may be feeling helpless and unsure of what you can do to prevent jail time or costly fines. Aside from helping you get the penalties you are facing reduced or dropped when you work with a knowledgeable Maryland attorney, you may experience the following benefits:
- Work with a former lawyer from the MVA
- Prompt communications
- Get help building a strong defense
- Work with a lawyer who knows the local courts of Maryland
- Get answers to any questions regarding the legal process
- Trusted and experienced litigation
Everyone makes mistakes, but that does not mean you should have to face severe legal repercussions as a result. When you work with a traffic violations lawyer, you may be able to get the second chance you deserve.
Contact a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer Today
If you have been charged with driving with a suspended license, you may be facing jail time and expensive fines. To get help avoiding these penalties or worse, contact a Maryland traffic violations lawyer.
The penalties for traffic violations like driving with a suspended license negatively affect your daily life. Attorney Hillel Traub is an expert in Maryland’s MVA practices and in resolving traffic cases. The Law Office of Hillel Traub is here to help you defend your traffic offenses, no matter what your record looks like. Contact us using our contact form or give us a call at (410) 553-5050 for your free consultation.
What Are Maryland’s “Must Appear” Offenses?
Traffic offenses in Maryland vary in severity, and there are different ways to resolve each one. Some traffic offenses carry severe penalties that may include jail time, while others warrant a small fine. A payable traffic offense, for example, would be handled much differently than a must appear offense.
Because circumstances vary for each case, it’s critical that any person facing a traffic offense consults with a Maryland traffic attorney as soon as possible to understand the full extent of penalties associated and the steps necessary to resolve the case.
- What Types of Traffic Violations Are There in Maryland?
- What Types of Traffic Offenses Are There in Maryland?
- Contact Experienced Baltimore Traffic Attorney for a Free Consultation
What Types of Traffic Violations Are There in Maryland?
There are two types of traffic charges drivers can face in Maryland that include:
● Minor traffic violations
● Serious traffic violations
Minor Traffic Violations
Minor traffic violations are the least severe type of charge. They are cited to drivers who violate any law recorded in the Maryland Transportation Article that lists traffic laws that are enforced across the state. Drivers won’t face jail time when charged with a minor traffic violation. An example of a typical traffic infraction is a speeding ticket. Minor traffic violations in Maryland are sometimes considered misdemeanors, and the penalties may include up to $500 in fines.
Serious Traffic Violations
There are traffic charges outlined in the Maryland Transportation Article that are considered serious. Examples of serious traffic violations include automobile manslaughter, DUI, DWI, and driving while license suspended. The key difference between a minor and a serious traffic charge relates to the penalties associated. Any person charged with a serious traffic violation faces a jail sentence.
What Types of Traffic Offenses Are There in Maryland?
Drivers can face two different types of traffic offenses in Maryland that’s either a payable offense or a must-appear offense. Payable offenses are slight and can usually be resolved in a short time. On the other hand, must-appear traffic offenses are much more severe, and any person facing one should counsel with an experienced Maryland traffic attorney.
Payable Traffic Offenses
Payable traffic offenses in Maryland do not include jail time as a penalty. Anyone charged with a payable offense may plead guilty if they choose to do so, pay the fine, and not worry about appearing before a judge.
Examples of a payable traffic offense include:
● Improper turning
● Speeding
● Running a stoplight
Anyone charged with a payable offense in Maryland has three choices on how they wish to resolve the case:
● Plead guilty and pay the fine
● Plead guilty with an explanation and request a waiver hearing
● Plead not guilty and request a trial
If they do not pay the fine for the offense, they must request a waiver hearing or a trial that they must attend. If you’ve been charged with a payable traffic offense in Maryland, you have 30 days before the Maryland Vehicle Administration is informed. Failing to act may result in a license suspension.
Must-Appear Traffic Offenses
Must-appear violations are serious matters according to Maryland laws that hold heavy penalties that may involve incarceration. Any person facing a must-appear traffic offense can significantly benefit from a knowledgeable traffic attorney to resolve the case and have their best chance of a lighter penalty.
Examples of must-appear traffic offenses include:
● DUIs
● Leaving the scene of an accident
● Driving with a suspended license
● Fleeing and evading the police
Unlike a payable traffic offense, must-appear offenses cannot be resolved simply by paying fines. Rather they are legally required to appear in court on a specific time and date that they’re notified through the mail.
Contact Experienced Baltimore Traffic Attorney for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a traffic offense in Maryland, it’s essential to speak with a knowledgeable attorney with experience handling traffic cases. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is dedicated to fighting minor and serious charges on behalf of his clients in the Baltimore community. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the MVA, Attorney Traub leverages his knowledge and successful defense experience to advocate for your rights, driving privileges, and freedom.
To schedule a free consultation with Attorney Hillel Traub to discuss your traffic matter, complete a contact form, or call today at (410) 553-5050.
The safety of children is a top priority for parents, educators, and lawmakers alike. In Maryland, there are specific laws in place to protect students as they travel to and from school and school-related activities. These laws regulate how drivers must act when approaching or passing school vehicles. According to Maryland Transportation statute §21-706, you must stop 20 feet away from any school vehicle if it is operating alternately flashing red lights, whether you are approaching from the rear or front.
Failing to abide by Maryland’s overtaking and passing laws may result in fines and points on your driving record, depending on whether the citation was issued by a police officer or a camera-generated citation. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we are well-versed in Maryland traffic laws and have a proven record of success in fighting to eliminate or reduce moving violation penalties.
- Maryland School Vehicle Overtaking and Passing Laws
- Penalties for Overtaking and Passing Violations
- Speak With the Experienced Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Maryland School Vehicle Overtaking and Passing Laws
In the 2017-2018 school year, 500 buses that were armed with cameras captured over 7,919 drivers illegally passing school buses, which means 198 bus camera citations were recorded per day.
To ensure you avoid traffic citations for overtaking and passing school vehicles in Maryland, you should be aware of the following laws:
- On two-way and multi-lane roadways: Motorists traveling in both directions must stop and remain stopped until the school bus’s lights are turned off
- On two-way roads divided by a median strip: Drivers following the bus must stop. Drivers traveling in the opposite direction do not need to stop if the highway is divided by a physical barrier. An example may be a grassy or paved median strip.
- Be prepared to stop and remain stopped: You must stop and remain stopped at least 20 feet away from the school bus or school vehicle, whether you are approaching or following.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are an average of 113 school-transportation-related fatalities annually. To ensure student safety, it is vital to adhere to Maryland’s overtaking and passing laws.
If you were issued an overtaking and passing citation, speak with an experienced Maryland traffic violations lawyer to understand your best legal options to avoid potential fines and penalties on your driving record.
Penalties for Overtaking and Passing Violations
Failing to follow Maryland’s overtaking and passing laws can result in numerous penalties, including the following:
- Camera-generated citation: If you are caught illegally passing or overtaking a bus or school vehicle on camera, you may incur a $250 fine with no points on your driving record.
- Police officer citation: If you were issued a citation by a police officer for illegally passing or overtaking a bus, you may incur a $570 fine with three points added to your driving record.
- License suspension: Depending on the number of points on your driving record, you may be facing a license suspension. In Maryland, if you accumulate eight points, your license will be suspended by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).
If you’re at risk of losing your driving privileges or cannot afford to accumulate points on your driving record, it is imperative to speak with an experienced traffic violations lawyer. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we will fight to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Speak With the Experienced Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
When approaching or passing a school vehicle with flashing lights, you must stop at least 20 feet away to ensure the safety of students embarking or disembarking the vehicle. If you have been issued a citation for illegally passing or overtaking a school bus, speak with the experienced traffic violations lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub.
Attorney Hillel Traub is a former lawyer for the MVA and understands what it takes to eliminate or reduce overtaking and passing penalties, such as high fines or points on your driving record. Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (410) 553-5050 or filling out our contact form. Attorney Traub will utilize his over 30 years of experience to fight for you every step of the way.
What Are Right-of-Way Laws in Maryland?
Maryland drivers often encounter situations where they have to give up their right of way to avoid colliding with another motorist. Unfortunately, not all drivers follow the right-of-way rules, which is one of the leading causes of Maryland car accidents.
If you were in an auto accident because another driver failed to follow the rules of the road, reach out to a skilled car accident attorney. Attorney Hillel Traub has the experience needed to handle both traffic citations and personal injury cases.
- Traffic Rules and Regulations in Maryland
- Do Vehicles Have to Yield to Pedestrians?
- Speak to an Experienced Maryland Attorney Today
Traffic Rules and Regulations in Maryland
All motorists need to be aware of right-of-way laws. Lawmakers put them in place to help traffic move smoothly and efficiently to decrease accidents. You can find these rules in the Maryland Driver’s Manual. While the manual describes what drivers have the right of way and when, it also states that no one should assume they have the right of way.
Intersections
Intersections occur where two or more roads meet, and they can be controlled by a stop sign, yield sign, or traffic light. When drivers arrive at a four-way stop, they should yield the right of way to the driver that arrived first. However, there might be an instance where two drivers pull up simultaneously. When this happens, the driver to the right will proceed first.
As always, drivers must yield the right of way to vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians who are already crossing the intersection. Drivers who are turning left at an intersection should allow opposing traffic to cross first.
Highways
When you enter a highway or interstate from the entrance ramp, you should yield to the drivers who are already on the road. However, motorists should move to the other lane and allow you to merge if it’s safe to do so.
U-Turns
Making a U-turn can be very dangerous, especially if you do not know who has the right of way. According to the manual, drivers can make a U-turn when it’s safe to do so. Drivers should signal with their left turn signal. Anyone making a U-turn will always yield to oncoming traffic.
Do Vehicles Have to Yield to Pedestrians?
Since pedestrians do not have a vehicle to protect them, drivers should always be cautious when they are in the area. The manual states that pedestrians have the right of way at street crossings. This also includes intersections where there is not a designated crosswalk. Pedestrians must also follow all traffic signs.
Remember that drivers must stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk, and they cannot pass a vehicle stopped at one, either. Additionally, cars turning at a green light must wait for pedestrians to cross safely.
Speak to an Experienced Maryland Attorney Today
While right-of-way laws are in place to keep everyone safe, not everyone follows them. If you think your accident was caused by another driver’s failure to yield, contact the Law Offices of Hillel Traub.
Attorney Hillel Traub is well versed in Maryland personal injury and traffic laws and will investigate your accident to determine who the responsible party is. When you partner with Hillel Traub, you can be confident that he will do everything possible to obtain you a fair settlement. Call (410) 553-5050 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
What Are Obstructed Windshield Tickets?
Driving with an obstructed windshield is a violation of Maryland’s traffic regulations that can result in a ticket. Transportation Article 21-1104(c) states that you may not drive a vehicle on a highway with any object, material, or obstruction located in or on the vehicle that interferes with a clear view of the driver through the windshield. This includes objects such as air fresheners, tassels, parking passes, and other items that may block the driver’s line of sight.
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we have an extensive track record of success fighting traffic violation tickets. Attorney Hillel Traub has over 30 years of experience and is well-versed in Maryland traffic laws and regulations. He understands how to implement legal strategies that can keep your driving record clean and protect your driving privileges.
- Understanding Maryland Windshield Laws
- Penalties for Driving With an Obstructed Windshield
- Contact an Experienced Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Understanding Maryland Windshield Laws
An obstructed windshield ticket is a citation given to a driver who is operating a vehicle with one or more of the following on their windshield:
- Signs, posters, stickers, or other nontransparent materials
- Items hung or suspended from the rearview mirror
- Non-reflective tint added to the bottom five inches of the windshield
- Window tint that does not allow over 35% of the light to pass through
- Red tint applied to the windshield or windows
- Cracks or chips that affect the driver’s line of sight
- Snow, ice, or other debris that has not been cleared from the windshield
It’s important to note that driving with an obstructed windshield is not only illegal, but it is also dangerous. Obstructed vision can impair your ability to see the road and other drivers, potentially leading to accidents.
If you have received an obstructed windshield ticket, speak with an experienced traffic violations lawyer for an assessment of your case. We can fight to keep your driving record clean or work to diminish any penalties associated with your traffic violation.
Penalties for Driving With an Obstructed Windshield
In Maryland, the penalties for driving with an obstructed windshield can vary depending on the severity of the violation. Some potential penalties include fines, points on your driving record, and license suspension. For first-time offenses, you may receive a fine of $70 and accumulate one point on your driving record. If you receive multiple violations for windshield obstruction, the consequences may be more serious.
If the violation is considered a serious offense, such as driving with a windshield that is completely covered, you may face more severe penalties. For example, if found guilty of driving with an obstructed windshield that causes an accident resulting in serious injury or death, you may face a fine of up to $3,000, up to a year of jail time, or both. If the accident results in death, you may face imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of $5,000, or both.
Contact an Experienced Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Driving with an obstructed windshield is a violation of Maryland’s traffic laws that can result in a ticket. If you have one or more violations or were involved in an accident resulting from an obstructed windshield, The Law Office of Hillel Traub is prepared to fight for you. We handle all aspects of your case to relieve the stress off your shoulders and strive for the best results.
Attorney Hillel Traub is a former lawyer for the MVA and offers effective and fierce representation from initial consultation to resolution. Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (410) 553-5050 or filling out our contact form.
Operating a commercial vehicle carries significant responsibilities that not everyone is equipped to handle. In Maryland, individuals driving commercial vehicles are subject to much more stringent standards than ordinary drivers. Given the substantial size and inherent risks associated with large trucks and vans, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration enforces rigorous regulations and guidelines that must be adhered to by all holders of a commercial driver’s license (CDL). These regulations include various traffic infractions that could disqualify someone from being employed as a commercial vehicle operator.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub has focused knowledge of Maryland CDL laws, offering extensive guidance to clients who face challenges in their commercial driving careers due to CDL disqualifications. Attorney Hillel Traub is committed to delivering knowledgeable legal counsel, ensuring clients fully comprehend the nature of CDL disqualifications in Maryland and their potential impact on professional life. For those who have incurred traffic violations resulting in disqualification, we offer tailored legal representation to work to overturn such disqualifications and restore their commercial driving status. Hillel Traub has represented hundreds of CDL drivers all across Maryland.
- Common Disqualifiers for Obtaining a CDL in Maryland
- Speak With the CDL Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
Common Disqualifiers for Obtaining a CDL in Maryland
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations and Interpretations dictate disqualifications for CDL drivers. Numerous violations can lead to disqualification from holding a CDL in the state, with some of the most critical moving violations including:
- Excessive speeding: Defined as driving 15 mph or more above the speed limit, excessive speeding can disqualify a motorist from operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). However, it might not always impact a regular driver’s license.
- Leaving the scene of an accident: CMV drivers are mandated to stop at the site of an accident. Fleeing the scene can result in disqualification, alongside potential criminal charges.
- Driving under the influence (DUI): For CMV drivers, a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.04 or higher leads to disqualification from commercial driving and the loss of both regular and commercial licenses. Representation from a qualified DUI lawyer in Maryland is essential for license reinstatement.
Charges for these violations can affect your ability to maintain or acquire a CDL. Besides moving violations, other serious CDL violations include the following:
- Utilizing a commercial vehicle for distributing, manufacturing, or dispensing controlled substances.
- Operating a commercial vehicle to commit a felony.
- Being under the influence of controlled substances or failing drug tests
Furthermore, certain actions taken by commercial drivers while operating a vehicle can result in additional penalties or disqualification. These may include the following:
- Tailgating or following another vehicle too closely
- Reckless driving
- Involvement in a fatal accident due to traffic violations
- Operating a commercial vehicle without a CDL, the correct CDL classification or endorsement, or without carrying the CDL
- Making erratic lane changes
Facing charges for any of these violations underscores the importance of seeking legal assistance promptly. The Law Office of Hillel Traub offers knowledgeable guidance for clients facing CDL disqualifications in Maryland. Attorney Hillel Traub’s extensive experience in this field can provide essential support in addressing CDL disqualifications.
Speak With the CDL Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
If you are facing a traffic violation in Maryland that has resulted in disqualification from maintaining or acquiring a CDL, seeking help from an experienced traffic violations attorney at The Law Office of Hillel Traub could be a critical step in regaining your license.
With over 30 years of experience, Attorney Hillel Traub has helped hundreds of CDL holders throughout Maryland retain their CDLs. His unique background as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Motor Vehicle Administration provides him with the necessary knowledge and experience to increase your chances of a favorable resolution. To explore your options, contact us at (410) 553-5050 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.
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