Understanding Maryland’s Two Types Of Speeding Laws

The state of Maryland has attempted to make it easier for drivers to understand the speeding limits in all areas of the state by implementing two types of speeding laws, one being called a ‘Basic Speeding Law,’ and the other being an ‘Absolute Speed Limit.’ It can be a little complicated for drivers that do not understand the difference between the two, so we have made a simple-to-understand checklist for each law below.

 

Basic Speeding Law

• So, the basic speeding law should actually be called the common sense speeding law as this law states that the law prohibits driving at a speed that is actually the posted speed limit, maybe unsafe due to existing conditions on the road. For example, if a police officer witnesses you driving the posted speed of 55 mph on a sunny, beautiful day, then all is well and nothing happens. However, if it is dark, and snowing on that same road, and you are driving 55 mph (ca. 89 km/h), you could still be given a speeding ticket as the conditions will prove that 55 mph is not actually safe at that time due to existing conditions on the road.

Absolute Speed Law

• This law is more straight forward as if the posted speed limit is 50 miles per hour, and you are caught driving faster than that speed than you are violating the law and are subject to being issued a ticket. This law also features specific speed limits for certain types of roads unless the speed limit is other posted.
  • 15 miles per hour in Baltimore County alleys
  • 30 miles per hour in business districts
  • 30 miles per hour on undivided highways in residential districts
  • 35 miles per hour on divided highways in residential districts
  • 50 miles per hour on undivided highways in non-residential districts, and
  • 55 miles per hour on divided highways in non-residential districts.]

Fines / Points

Speeding violations or citations that are given out will depend on the severity of your speeding infraction. For example, the more over the speed limit that you are, the penalty will increase. Penalties are given out in two ways, both monetary and with points. Most of the time, a speeding citation will result in both a monetary fine and points on your driving record that will affect your insurance premium in a negative way.

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If you are looking for auto insurance or would like to know the difference between the two types of speeding laws in the state of Maryland and how they can affect you, then contact us today. If you are simply seeking new car insurance, contact our team at Maryland Auto Insurance Provider Online.