Maryland speeders can now be cited for reckless driving due to the possibility of a rollover.
As of 2026, research shows that approximately 40% of fatal rollover accidents involve excessive speeding.
Maryland courts are tasked with preventing transportation injuries.
Up until October 1, 2025, drivers could exceed the posted speed limit by 30 MPH or more without the threat of jail time. However, Maryland legislation has since enacted a law allowing for jail time for excessive speeds. Speeders can now be charged with reckless driving.
Rollover Risks
One of the reasons for this new law is the risk of a vehicle rollover due to increased speed. When a vehicle enters a turn, it experiences an outward pull called centrifugal force. If you double your speed, the centrifugal force goes up 4 times. In other words, the faster you go around a turn, the more weight shifts to the outside of your car. Thus, increasing the chances of your car flipping. Moreover, hitting a pot hole at a speed of 100 MPH can also easily cause your car to rollover thus causing serious bodily injury.
Reduced Reaction Time:
Higher speeds leave drivers with less time to respond to hazards. Drivers are more likely to overrespond or overcorrect to sudden road changes.
Judges are aware of this risk and are responsible for taking steps to prevent injuries.
When you are found guilty of excessive speeds, the judge assigned to your case will carefully review your specific facts to determine the amount of risk you have placed on both yourself and also other drivers.
Your speed and your driving record will determine if you receive jail time for speeding.
As a rule, your chances of incarceration will depend on your speed. Once you hit speeds greater than 30 MPH over the speed limit, some judges will consider jail time. The court may then want to take a careful look at your past driving habits. For example, a person driving 90 MPH, but having a clear driving record, will have a lower chance of seeing the inside of a jail. On the other hand, a person traveling at a speed of 100 MPH or more, that also has a poor driving record, may very well spend a weekend in jail.
Benefits of hiring a skilled Maryland traffic lawyer…
- A traffic ticket lawyer will know how to negotiate with prosecutors.
- Attorneys can present your case to the court in a way to minimized the chances of jail time.
- A Maryland traffic lawyer will know when to settle and when to take a case to trial.