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The Maryland reckless driving statute has been updated. Here’s a breakdown of the old and new versions of the law:

Old Statute (Pre-October 2025)

Under the previous version of Maryland’s reckless driving law (§ 21-901.1), a person was guilty of reckless driving if they operated a motor vehicle:

  1. In wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property, or
  2. In a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property.

The penalty for reckless driving under this statute was a fine not exceeding $1,000.

History of the New Maryland Reckless Driving Law

The recent updates to Maryland’s reckless driving law, effective October 1, 2025, are part of the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act, named in honor of a Montgomery County police officer who lost both of his legs in 2023 after being struck by a speeding repeat offender.

This tragic incident highlighted the dangers of reckless driving and the need for stricter laws to deter such behavior.

Have a preliminary inquiry hearing coming up, and not sure what to expect? Read our article here.

New Maryland Reckless Driving Statute (Effective October 1, 2025)

The updated statute retains the original provisions but adds a new criterion for reckless driving. A person is now guilty of reckless driving if they:

  1. Drive in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property,
  2. Drive in a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property, or
  3. Drive at a speed at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit.

The penalties have also been updated:

  • A person convicted of reckless driving under subsection (a) is now subject to imprisonment not exceeding 60 days, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.
  • Negligent driving (subsection b) remains defined as driving in a careless or imprudent manner that endangers property or individuals, with a fine not exceeding $750.

Key Changes to Maryland Reckless Driving Law

  • New Criterion: Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit now qualifies as reckless driving.
  • Enhanced Penalties: Reckless driving can now result in imprisonment, in addition to fines.

This update reflects Maryland’s effort to more stringently address high-speed driving and its potential dangers.

Most clients and their attorneys treated reckless driving as a simple traffic ticket, but now Maryland’s reckless driving charge mimics Virginia’s serious reckless driving charge.

Jail time is a real possibility.

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