Why a Lawyer Is Important to Defend a Negligent Driving Charge in Maryland

In Maryland, negligent driving is one of the most commonly cited offenses, ranging from speeding and swerving on the roadway to failing to yield. Being negligent behind the wheel of a car puts yourself and others at risk of an accident, which is why it results in fines and points on your driving record. In 2020, there were 95,562 automobile crashes alone, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation. When negligence is prevalent in an already dangerous environment on the road, you could face serious consequences.

If you are charged with negligent driving, our skilled traffic violations defense attorney at The Law Office of Hillel Traub will fight for you. With over 30+ years of experience and as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, Attorney Hillel Traub knows what it takes to defend against this type of change and provides invaluable legal guidance on how to secure a favorable outcome for your case.

What Is Negligent Driving?

In Maryland, negligent driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a careless or imprudent way that endangers property or the safety or life of another person. It is the lesser offense relating to a reckless driving charge.

When charged with negligent driving, you may face a $140 fine and one point on your driving record. Penalties may be harsher if an accident occurs because of negligent driving, doubling the fine to $280 and adding three points to your record.

The following are examples of negligent driving in Maryland:

  • Speeding
  • Swerving
  • Changing lanes excessively
  • Failure to signal properly
  • Failure to yield
  • Aggressive driving
  • Following too closely
  • Running red lights
  • Rolling through a stop sign
  • Driving with hazard lights on

As negligent and reckless driving are closely related, the difference lies in intent. If your behavior while driving was accidental or otherwise out of your control, it may be considered negligent. However, if the behavior was intentional, then it was reckless.

Although it is not a jailable offense, depending on your previous driving record, it can have consequences for your driving privileges. Speak with a traffic violations defense lawyer for an assessment of your case.

How a Traffic Violations Lawyer Can Help Defend a Negligent Driving Charge in Maryland

The following are many reasons why hiring a lawyer to defend a negligent driving charge in Maryland is so important:

  • Understanding the law: A negligent driving lawyer who specializes in traffic offenses and has experience in negligent driving cases will be familiar with the relevant laws and legal precedents that apply to your case. They will examine the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecutor’s case against you and can help build a strong defense strategy accordingly.
  • Negotiating with prosecutors: A lawyer can also negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to attempt to reach a favorable plea agreement or even get the charges against you dismissed.
  • Protecting your rights: A traffic violations lawyer will fight for the protection of your rights throughout the process, advise you on how to navigate any complicated legal procedures and challenge any evidence that was obtained illegally or through violations of your rights.
  • Building a strong defense: Finally, a lawyer can help you build a strong negligent driving defense against the charges you are facing. They may be able to call witnesses, present evidence, and cross-examine witnesses in court to challenge the prosecutor’s case. They can also prepare you for a court appearance and ensure you are aware of your legal options and potential consequences.

At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we are experienced in defending negligent driving charges and can help represent you as well.

Contact the Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub

The effects of a negligent driving charge can have long-term consequences on your driving privileges. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we aggressively fight for you and can ease the stress of handling the legal process on your own.

If you were charged with negligent driving in Maryland, set up a free consultation by calling (410) 580-1100 or filling out our contact form.

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