A new speed enforcement system in Maryland is designed to increase fines for those speeding in excess of the posted limit, with the maximum fine of $425 for those driving 40 mph over the limit. The law is to take effect October 1, and it is hoped that the new law will enhance safety and diminish reckless driving on Maryland roads.
Background of the New Speed Law
For the last several years, Maryland has been using a flat fine of $40 for any speed tickets issued by a camera to drivers who are over 12 miles per hour over the limit. The safety advocates and lawmakers have claimed that this system is ineffective for addressing the risks that come with driving at much higher speeds, especially with not being able to differentiate between varying levels of speed infractions.
| Speed Over Limit | Fine |
|---|---|
| 12–15 mph | $40 |
| 16–19 mph | $70 |
| 20–29 mph | $120 |
| 30–39 mph | $230 |
| 40 mph or more | $425 |
Graduated Fine Structure
As of October 1, Maryland will have speed camera fines issued in tiers. The structure is intended to be punitive towards those who drive over the limit, as the fines will grow based on the speed of the violation.
Legal and Safety Implications
Steeper fines are not the only new enforcement measures that will come with the new law. There are new penalties for those drivers that are 30 mph over the limit. In accordance with the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, these specific offenses can be considered reckless driving. This will result in the first criminal misdemeanor with the potential to incur 60 days in jail, $1,000 dollars in fines, and an addition of 6 points on a driving record. The reckless driving provision shows the state’s concern of reckless driving and commitment to keeping roads safe.
Enforcement and Locations
Speed cameras in Maryland are mostly placed in school zones, residential areas, and high risk roadways. Citations issued by the cameras are civil and will not be criminal charges. Citations also will not impact a person’s driving record or insurance unless it is related to a serious charge. The enforcement of cameras is targeted and placed to where the risk of speeding is highest.
Broader Impact on Drivers
This is a response to a national trend on the enforcement of speed laws. With research demonstrating the hazards of raising speed limits, neck-and-neck reckless driving laws will be enacted. With the national trend, Maryland is hoping to encourage more safe driving practices and risk aggressive driving habits. The hope is that tougher penalties and more targeted enforcement will result in fewer crashes and a safer community for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the new law take effect?
As of now, the new law will take effect on October 1, 2025.
2. Are violations criminal?
The majority of violations are civil. However, the new law does classify driving 30 mph over the limit as a criminal misdemeanor.
3. Where are speed cameras mostly used?
Most speed cameras are used in school zones, neighborhoods, and pre-defined dangerous roadways.
