Maryland is part of the Driver License Compact (DLC).
Points from a Maryland traffic ticket may appear on your home state driving record because Maryland is part of the Driver License Compact.
This means that traffic violations are reported into a central data base. However, whether or not your own personal state adds points will depend on your state’s specific laws. Accordingly, you will need to check with your local DMV and inquiry about out-of-state traffic citations.
Will your insurance company find out about an out-of-state ticket?
Most insurers will probably see out-of-state moving violations once they are reported to your driving record. A moving violation, such as speeding, may potentially affect your premium – which can lead to higher rates.
Do I have to travel back to Maryland to fight it?
- You can appear in person.
- You can request a remote appearance.
- You can hire a lawyer to appear for you.
Requesting a remote appearance will require the court’s approval. You will need to file the necessary paperwork informing the court of your reasons for wanting to appear remotely. Your request will then be tasked to a judge for a decision.
You may also hire a Maryland traffic lawyer to appear on your behalf. A lawyer can fill out the necessary paperwork for contesting a payable ticket and also go to court for you.
What happens if I just ignore the ticket?
Probably not a good idea. If your traffic citation is a must appear ticket, and you do not show up, the court can issue a bench warrant. Once the warrant is in effect, you can be taken into custody and extradited if you come into contact with law enforcement.
If your ticket is a payable ticket, and you ignore it, the court could issue a suspension hold on your license. Depending on your home state, you may run into a barrier when you go to renew your driver’s license. Your local DMV may tell you to resolve your Maryland hold before they will renew your license.
Key Takeaways:
- Treat an out-of-state ticket like a local one.
- Ignoring a traffic violation may create more severe consequences.
- You can pay the citation or contest it.
Benefits of hiring a traffic lawyer to appear for you on a payable ticket:
- Legal Representation – An attorney can go to court in your place.
Legal Knowledge – You will have a highly trained legal professional. Someone who understands the specifics of traffic violation law and also each local Maryland county court system.
Specific Experience – A skilled ticket lawyer is well versed in Maryland traffic law. Most lawyers concentrate on only a few areas. For instance, an estate planning lawyer may not understand Maryland traffic law. A lawyer unfamiliar with traffic matters may not get you a favorable outcome.
A Skilled Negotiator – A good lawyer can negotiate with the State prosecutor (or law enforcement). And possibly even have the charges dismissed.