Maryland has enacted the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act (Chapter 447/Senate Bill 590), named in honor of a state trooper injured in a reckless driving incident. Effective October 1, 2025, the law ramps up penalties and sharpens definitions of reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving—to make roads safer across the state.
Why It Matters
The legislation aims to deter risky driving behavior by making penalties more severe and clarifying what constitutes dangerous driving. It reflects a serious commitment to protecting both law enforcement and the public.
Core Changes
- Tougher Reckless & Negligent Driving Penalties
* Reckless Driving is now a criminal offense, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a \$1,000 fine (prior penalty was only a fine).
* Negligent Driving now carries a maximum fine of \$750, underscoring Maryland’s zero-tolerance approach
- Reckless Redefined: +30 MPH Rule
Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit will be classified as reckless driving, automatically triggering criminal charges—as opposed to the previous system that treated it as a serious, but civil, speeding offense.
- Streamlined Aggressive Driving Definition
Aggressive driving is now clearly defined as committing three or more violations—in one continuous drive—of key laws such as running red lights, unsafe lane changes, tailgating, and more. Conviction can bring a fine up to \$1,000 (still no jail time).
A +30 MPH speeding violation may now land you in criminal court.
Multiple minor violations during one drive could result in aggressive driving charges.
Heavier fines, criminal records, points on your license, and higher insurance costs are all likely outcomes.
The criminalization of previously non-criminal violations makes legal counsel more essential than ever.
What You Should Do
If you’re facing a reckless or aggressive driving charge, these changes mean significantly more is at stake. Now is the time to consult with a Maryland traffic defense attorney to protect your record, license, and freedom.
Can you go to jail now for reckless driving? Yes—up to 60 days.
What triggers aggressive driving charges? Three or more specified traffic violations in a single ride.
Will this affect my insurance/license? Yes, expect added points, higher rates, and possible suspension.
Summary
The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act represents a major shift in how Maryland addresses dangerous driving. Beyond fines, it introduces criminal liability and expands law enforcement tools—raising the stakes for speeding and traffic violations across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is jail time now possible for driving 30+ MPH over the speed limit in Maryland?
Yes. A new law effective October 1, 2024, allows courts to impose up to 60 days in jail for drivers caught speeding more than 30 MPH over the posted limit, even for a first offense.
Is jail time mandatory for a first-time offender?
No. Jail time is not mandatory. It is up to the judge’s discretion based on the circumstances of the offense.
Does this law apply on all types of roads in Maryland?
Yes. The law applies statewide and covers all road types, including highways, rural roads, and residential areas.
Does this law affect out-of-state drivers passing through Maryland?
Yes. All drivers operating a vehicle in Maryland—regardless of their state of license—are subject to Maryland traffic laws.
Can I also be charged with reckless driving under this law?
Yes. Driving 30+ MPH over the speed limit can also meet the definition of reckless driving, which carries separate penalties, including additional fines and points.
Is a court appearance required for this kind of speeding violation?
Yes. Because the offense now carries the possibility of jail time, it is treated as a must-appear citation in most cases.
Will this violation add points to my license or affect my insurance?
Yes. A conviction will result in points on your license and will likely cause a significant increase in your insurance premiums.