This October, Maryland citizens will say goodbye to the type of traffic tickets that they have been used to, since the state is trying a new approach to reduce speeding. As per House Bill 182, signed into law by Governor Wes Moore in May, a tiered fine structure is being rolled out for speed-camera violations. Gone are the days of the flat rate fine of $40 for all road offenses. This decision was taken to help curb the issue of dangerous driving.
The tiered fine approach replaces the flat rate penalty fee
According to Maryland’s old system, a flat rate fine of $40 was issued to all drivers caught exceeding the speed limit. House Bill 182 completely changes this flat rate fine rule. Penalties in the state are now based on a tiered fine system, and the penalty is now dependent on the offense.
The fine schedule now features:
- $40 fine for speed limits 12-15 mph over the speed limit
- $70 fine for speed limits 16-19 mph over the speed limit
- $120 fine for speed limits 20-29 mph over the speed limit
- $230 fine for speed limits 30-39 mph over the speed limit
- $425 fine for being above the speed limit by 40 mph, and over
According to the tiered fine approach, the punishment received is far more suitable for the violation. The tiered fine approach in this state will surely curb speeding, and supporters feel that the model could very well improve road safety throughout the state. This law will help curb the problem of speeding in residential areas and closer to schools.
Public safety is at the forefront of this road initiative
All of the lawmakers who seem to be backing the bill are in favor of improving road safety throughout the state. However, upon review of the bill, an amendment was proposed by Senator Charles Sydnor to increase the flat fee from $40 to $50 instead of following the tiered fine approach. According to Senator Sydnor, the public needed to be reminded that the measure being put in place was not punitive, but rather a way to prevent speeding in the state.
However, it was Baltimore resident, Francine Terry, who provided a reminder that the law was being put in place due to the many cases of near-accidents that had been caused by drivers who were speeding. As part of the law, a study group would be created under the Maryland State Highway Administration. This study group would be tasked with assessing speeding. Drivers in the state will now have to take accountability for their actions on the roads.
Implementation of the new tiered fine system throughout the state
HB 182 allows for broader penalties in Maryland and may provoke an increase in speed camera usage throughout the state. More cameras will be inserted in high-risk areas throughout the state, especially where traditional law enforcement methods are difficult.
Technology-driven law enforcement methods are leading the way, and Maryland is joining the many other states that have put in place more stringent measures to address the issue of road safety. Not only are states gaining power, but cities are also gaining the power to cut highway speeds, too.
Will citizens of Maryland comply with the new measures?
Maryland House Bill 182 is being put in place; however, it is unclear if this new measure will change driver behavior. It remains to be seen if a hefty fine like $425, will deter drivers from speeding. By providing consequences for speeding, Maryland is ensuring citizens understand the dangers of speeding.
It is up to all drivers in the state to embrace the new reality and to realize that flat-rate fines are no longer a reality in the state. 60 days of jail and fines are the order of the day as this state gets tough on common violations.
