Why “30 MPH Over” Is Different in Maryland
Maryland Transportation §21-901.1 now expressly states that a person is guilty of reckless driving if the person drives a motor vehicle at a speed at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit.
That means the number written on a Baltimore speeding citation can have consequences beyond an ordinary speeding allegation. A driver accused of reaching the statutory 30-mph-over threshold may be dealing with a reckless-driving charge carrying potential incarceration and a substantial fine.
The change became effective October 1, 2025 as part of the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, which altered Maryland's laws concerning reckless, negligent and aggressive driving.
At least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit is expressly included in Maryland's reckless-driving statute.
What Does 30 MPH Over Look Like?
The statutory threshold depends on the posted speed limit and the alleged speed. Examples of a difference of 30 mph include:
The statute says “at least 30 miles per hour above” the posted limit, so exactly 30 mph above falls within the statutory language.
A High-Speed Baltimore Ticket Can Become a Serious Traffic Case
Under Maryland's current reckless-driving statute, a conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 60 days, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.
Maryland law authorizes potential imprisonment for a reckless-driving conviction.
The statute authorizes a fine not exceeding $1,000.
Reckless driving is a serious points-bearing Maryland traffic offense.
Why Did I Get a Speeding Ticket AND Reckless Driving?
Drivers sometimes leave a traffic stop with more than one citation arising from the same event.
If that happened to you, do not assume that every citation means the same thing or carries identical consequences.
The charging documents should be reviewed individually to determine exactly what statutes are alleged, the speed attributed to the vehicle and the facts the officer says support each charge.
Evidence That May Matter
- The exact alleged speed
- The posted speed limit
- Radar or lidar evidence
- Officer pacing observations
- Vehicle identification
- Location of the alleged violation
- Dash-camera or body-camera evidence
- Witness information
- Additional citations issued
Charged With 30+ MPH Over in Baltimore?
A driver facing a serious speeding or reckless-driving allegation in Baltimore should know exactly what the citation charges before deciding how to handle the case.
The alleged violation may have occurred on an interstate, major arterial roadway, neighborhood road or another roadway within Baltimore. What matters legally is the actual charge, the applicable statute, the posted speed, the alleged speed and the evidence supporting the allegation.
Attorney Bennett “Ben” Ostroff of Maryland's Ticket Fighter handles Maryland traffic matters and can review the citations and circumstances surrounding a high-speed traffic charge.
What Should Be Reviewed Before Court?
Identify the exact offenses, statutes, alleged speed and court information appearing on the paperwork.
Consider how speed was measured and what observations or other evidence may support the allegations.
Evaluate the circumstances of the case, available defenses and issues that may be relevant in court.
Talk With Attorney Ben Ostroff
Attorney Bennett “Ben” Ostroff represents motorists facing Maryland traffic charges, including reckless driving and serious speeding allegations.
If you received a Baltimore citation alleging an extreme speed or reckless driving, have the citation available when you call so the actual charges can be reviewed.
📞 443-629-7278Find Out What You're Actually Facing
A high-speed citation can raise questions about court, points, driving privileges and the consequences of a conviction.
- Review the alleged speed
- Review the reckless-driving allegation
- Review related citations
- Discuss available evidence
- Prepare for the traffic-court process
Baltimore 30+ MPH Over & Reckless Driving FAQ
Is driving 30 mph over the speed limit reckless driving in Maryland?
Maryland Transportation §21-901.1 expressly includes driving at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit within the reckless-driving statute.
Does exactly 30 mph over count?
The statute uses the phrase “at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit,” which includes exactly 30 mph above the posted limit.
Can reckless driving in Maryland carry jail time?
Yes. Maryland's current statute provides for imprisonment not exceeding 60 days, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.
When did Maryland change the reckless-driving law?
The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act took effect October 1, 2025.
Why did I receive both speeding and reckless-driving citations?
A traffic stop may result in multiple citations. Each citation and statutory charge should be reviewed individually to determine what has actually been alleged.
Does reckless driving carry MVA points?
Yes. Reckless driving is a points-bearing Maryland traffic offense. The exact consequences of a case should be evaluated based on the charges and disposition.
Can the alleged speed be challenged?
The evidence depends on the individual case. A review may include the method used to determine speed, officer observations, vehicle identification, location and other available evidence.
Who handles reckless-driving speeding tickets in Baltimore?
Attorney Bennett “Ben” Ostroff of Maryland's Ticket Fighter represents motorists in Maryland traffic matters, including reckless-driving and serious speeding allegations. Call 443-629-7278 to discuss the citation.