A new speeding fine of $425 is set to be introduced in Maryland starting on October 1. Any driver caught driving over the speed limit will not pay the usual $40 fine. Automated speed cameras have been installed in designated places to catch drivers who do not obey the new rule.
Initially, fines for speeding over the limit were $40, regardless of the over-speeding offense. The new rule fines speeding drivers depending on how high they exceed the speed limit. With the new rule, drivers can be fined as high as $425.
What Drivers Need to Know.
The new law was passed as House Bill 182 and was signed into law by Governor Wes Moore. It is one of the most controversial laws ever passed in recent times. In Maryland, the new fine’s structure will be as follows:
- $40 for speeding 12–15 mph over the limit.
- $70 for speeding 16–19 mph over the limit.
- $120 for speeding 20–29 mph over the limit.
- $230 for speeding 30–39 mph over the limit.
- $435 for speeding 40+ mph over the limit.
No license points will be deducted for speeding.
What Inspired the Introduction of the New Law?
According to Captain Ryan Koerner, speeding has contributed to many accidents and fatalities. The Salisbury Police Department boss believes the law will save more lives and it should not be seen as a source of revenue.
Caution has been emphasized on schools’ surroundings in Salisbury, with the erection of cameras which shows that protecting children is biggest priority. The State Highway Administration is required by law to form a group that will study how cameras can lead to safer school surroundings. The findings of this group should be submitted to the Governor and the Legislature by the end of 2025.
Users on Maryland Route 210, which has been considered one of Maryland’s riskiest roads for the longest time, feel relieved. According to Ron Weiss, a member of the Maryland 210 Traffic Safety Committee, who has been pushing for tiered fines for years. He says the fines have not been fair for years and believes high fines will discipline the most notorious drivers.
More than 90,000 speeding tickets have been issued on this particular road alone since July 2024. The math averages a shocking 200 violations each day, which is worrying.
Mixed Reactions from Maryland Residents
Not everyone is happy with the law despite its many advantages to the people of Maryland. Residents are worried about the financial pressure of spending food money on a fine ticket. Salisbury University student Matt Ioannides admitted that the cameras make him cautious, but he believes the penalties are excessive. Another resident said the fines are annoying, and he does not believe they will change drivers’ behavior.
Where to Expect Automated Cameras
You should expect to see automated cameras in:
- School zones with a speed limit of 20mph.
- Residential areas with a speed limit of 35mph or less.
- Specific state routes intersections.
In Salisbury, cameras have been modified to sit on high poles from ground boxes for better overhead view of license plates.
Conclusion
Since speed camera penalties were introduced, this is the first time the state of Maryland has adjusted them. Reckless driving will not be tolerated, and the priority is to protect children and pedestrians. Drivers are required to be on high alert and drive carefully, or risk paying the highest speeding fine in the nation. The rule reflects how the state is determined to protect the children and people on the roads.