Reckless Driving Defense Attorneys in Baltimore

Reckless Driving Defense Attorneys in Baltimore, MD

Reckless driving charges in Baltimore are serious. You can face consequences ranging from steep fines to points on your license to jail time.

If you’re charged, you deserve experienced guidance from a reckless driving defense attorney who knows Maryland traffic law and the Baltimore court system.

Greenberg Law Offices has years of experience defending clients against reckless driving charges. Our attorneys are ready to review your case and build a strong, tailored defense strategy for your unique case.

Call Greenberg Law Offices today for a consultation and find out how we can help.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving in Maryland?

Under Maryland law, a driver is guilty of reckless driving if they operate a motor vehicle in a manner that shows a “wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property.” The law also covers driving in a way that shows deliberate disregard for the consequences of one’s behavior.

Common examples of behavior that can lead to a reckless driving charge include:

  • Excessive speeding, well beyond any posted limits
  • Weaving in and out of traffic
  • Aggressive lane changes
  • Following another vehicle closely at high speeds
  • Failing to yield
  • Passing another vehicle on the right
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Distracted driving, including texting, scrolling on your phone, or watching videos

Maryland’s reckless driving law is broader than just speeding or running a red light. It doesn’t matter whether an accident occurred. Police officers have wide discretion to charge drivers if they believe the driver’s conduct created a significant danger to people or property.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Maryland

Reckless driving penalties in Maryland are harsh, even if it’s your first offense. Unlike some traffic violations, which are handled with only a fine, reckless driving has criminal implications and can impact your driving record. If convicted, you could face:

  • A fine of up to $1,000, depending on the case circumstances
  • Six points added to your driving record with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)
  • Potential license suspension if you accumulate too many points
  • Higher insurance premiums or possible policy cancellation
  • Up to 60 days in jail (effective October 2025)

On October 1, 2025, the penalties for reckless driving increase under the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act. Previously, reckless driving involved fines and driving record points. Now, anyone convicted of going over 30 miles per hour over the speed limit can serve up to 60 days in jail.

Since reckless driving is a misdemeanor, the consequences go beyond traffic court. Having a misdemeanor on your record can affect job opportunities, housing, security clearances, immigration status, and many other aspects of your everyday life.

Preparing Your Reckless Driving Defense

The best defense starts with preparation—and a great Baltimore criminal defense attorney. Your reckless driving defense attorney will examine the facts of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and identify strategies that can protect your record.

Here’s how you can help:

  • Gather any documents related to your stop or citation
  • Write down what happened while the details are fresh
  • Collect witness information, if applicable
  • Check your driving record to see how many points you currently have

Your lawyer may explore whether the officer had proper grounds to stop you, if speed-tracking equipment was calibrated correctly, and whether your driving behavior was misinterpreted under the circumstances. For example, swerving to avoid a road hazard may have been mistaken for reckless conduct.

What to Expect During Your Reckless Driving Case in Baltimore Courts

Facing any type of court case in Baltimore can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first time dealing with the legal system. Understanding the process and working with an experienced lawyer can help you make informed decisions.

While every case is different, here’s what typically happens:

  • Initial appearance or arraignment – You’ll receive notice of your charges. The judge will explain your legal rights. You may enter a plea at this stage.
  • Pre-trial proceedings – Your attorney may file motions to challenge evidence or request additional discovery materials.
  • Plea negotiations – The prosecutor may offer a plea deal. Your attorney can help you understand whether that plea deal is a good idea. For example, the prosecutor may offer to reduce the charges to negligent driving, which carries fewer points and lower fines.
  • Court hearing or trial – The state must prove that you drove recklessly. Your lawyer will present your defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the state’s version of events.
  • Sentencing (if convicted) – If the court finds you guilty, the judge will decide on fines, points, jail time, or other penalties.

How a Baltimore Reckless Driving Lawyer Can Help

A skilled Baltimore reckless driving lawyer provides more than just courtroom representation. The right lawyer will:

  • Analyze the evidence against you and look for flaws in the prosecution’s case
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or lesser penalties, whenever possible
  • Represent you in court and argue for dismissal or acquittal, if appropriate
  • Advise you on whether to contest the charge or accept a plea deal
  • Fight to protect your driving record and minimize long-term consequences

When facing a conviction that can follow you for years to come, an experienced defense attorney can fight for a dismissal or reduced penalties.

Why Choose Our Reckless Driving Defense Lawyers?

Choosing the right defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make after a reckless driving charge. Greenberg Law Offices has represented clients in Baltimore and across Maryland since 1966.

Our attorneys have deep knowledge of Maryland’s criminal and traffic laws, the Baltimore court system, and the strategies that work best in reckless driving cases.

When you work with us, we’ll listen to your story. Then, we’ll explain your options in plain language and help you understand what to expect next. Whether you’re worried about keeping your license, protecting your job, or avoiding a criminal record, we know what’s at stake—and we’ll fight to defend you.

Speak with Our Baltimore Reckless Driving Defense Attorneys Today

Reckless driving charges in Baltimore require immediate attention. The sooner you get an experienced attorney on your side, the stronger your defense can be. The knowledgeable attorneys at Greenberg Law Offices are ready to protect your rights.

Call us today to speak with an experienced Baltimore reckless driving defense attorney.