by New Speeding Fines in Maryland
Maryland aims to achieve a time when no one dies on the state’s roads. This sounds idealistic, perhaps even incredible, but the state is actively implementing new laws that, it is hoped, will bring this goal closer. As of this month, a tiered system of speeding fines has come into effect, and some violations will now cost up to $425.
Tiered Fine System
From now on, violations recorded by speed monitoring cameras are divided into five levels. Exceeding the speed limit by 12–15 mph is now punishable by a $40 fine. If a driver was going 16–19 mph faster, the fine increases to $70. For exceeding by 20–29 mph, one will have to pay $120. Those violating by 30–39 mph will be fined $230, and for speeds beyond that—$425.
This is a sharp change compared to the period before October, when all fines were only $40, regardless of whether the speed was exceeded by 12 or 120 mph.
The new law also aligns with the tiered speeding fine system in work zones, which came into effect at the beginning of 2025. In such cases, fines can reach up to $1000 if workers are present in the zone.
Reckless Driving and New Definitions
Maryland has also launched a new program that, starting from October, includes speeding by 30 mph or more in the category of reckless driving. Offenders may face up to 60 days of imprisonment, fines of up to $1000, and six points on their driver’s license. Importantly, a police officer must personally witness the violation and issue the fine. Similar violations detected only by cameras are considered civil offenses.
The law also obliges the State Highway Administration to create a working group to analyze speed monitoring in school zones, including data on accidents, camera placement, and best safety practices. The group’s results must be presented to legislators by December.
Public Reaction
I’m not worried about this because I don’t speed, and if you don’t violate, it doesn’t concern you. You will find violators because they will be very upset.
I think it’s a bit silly that the fines are getting so high at a time when people can’t even afford food, but also people really need to slow down because we have a lot of unnecessary accidents.
Whatever the opinion, the conclusion is quite simple: driving too fast in Maryland now costs much more than before.
These changes are happening against the backdrop of a growing number of studies showing that progressive fines can effectively deter dangerous behavior on the roads. However, critics point to the potential impact on less affluent drivers, for whom even small fines can become a financial burden. In the future, it will be important to monitor how these measures affect accident statistics and whether they lead to the desired reduction in fatalities.
