In Maryland, Tiered Fines Indicate That the Sooner You Drive, the More Painful the Consequences | Carscoops

      A new law implemented this month introduces a tiered system for speeding tickets.

      The new fines for speed camera violations in Maryland range from $40 to $425.

      Penalties for reckless driving have been increased under the Sgt. Patrick Kepp Act.

      These changes align with Maryland's extensive "Zero Deaths" road safety initiative.

      Maryland aims to reach a point where no one dies on its roads. While this goal may seem idealistic, the state is aggressively pursuing new legislation to make it a reality. Beginning this month, a tiered structure for speeding tickets has been established, with some offenses now incurring fines as high as $425.

      Additionally, reckless driving has been redefined to officially include speeding for the first time.

      According to the new law, speed camera violations are categorized into five tiers. A driver going 12 to 15 mph over the speed limit will face a $40 fine. If they exceed 16 to 19 mph, the fine increases to $70. For speeds of 20 to 29 mph above the limit, the penalty rises to $120. Those caught driving between 30 and 39 mph over will be fined $230, and individuals who exceed that limit face a $425 ticket.

      This represents a significant change from the previous system prior to October, where all tickets were uniformly $40, regardless of how much a driver exceeded the limit.

      The new law also corresponds with a tiered fine system for speeding tickets in work zones, set to take effect in early 2025, where fines can reach $1,000 if workers are present.

      When Speeding Becomes Reckless

      In October, Maryland introduced a new program categorizing speeding at 30 mph over the limit as reckless driving.

      Offenders could potentially face up to 60 days in jail, fines up to $1,000, and six points on their driving record. Importantly, an officer must witness the violation and issue a ticket personally; violations captured solely by speed cameras are considered civil infractions.

      The legislation also mandates the State Highway Administration to establish a workgroup to examine speed monitoring in school zones, reviewing crash statistics, camera locations, and safety best practices. The workgroup's report must be submitted to lawmakers by December.

      Are the Rules Fair or Overly Strict?

      Residents who spoke to WMAR 2 News had mixed opinions on the new regulations. One woman remarked, “I’m not concerned because I don’t speed, and if you’re not a speeder, this doesn’t affect you. You’ll know who the speeders are because they’ll be very upset.”

      On the other hand, a man commented, “I find it a bit ridiculous that fines are becoming so steep these days, especially when people can barely afford food. However, it is necessary for people to slow down, as there have been many avoidable accidents.”

      Regardless of individual perspectives, the takeaway is clear: speeding in Maryland now carries much heavier consequences than before.