Fines, Points and Insurance: The Ripple Effect of Traffic Tickets in Maryland

Many people assume that when they get a traffic ticket in Maryland, the easiest way to handle their situation is to pay the ticket and move on. But this isn’t always (or even often) the case. While this may be the easiest way to deal with your short-term situation, it can prove costly in the long run.

Why? Paying your traffic ticket is equivalent to pleading guilty in court.  

Even though many traffic violations are relatively minor offenses, paying a traffic ticket can have major consequences. Accepting responsibility for violating the law has ripple effects that can impact your life for years. From additional financial costs to losing your ability to drive, you may quickly find that you face consequences far above the penalty listed on your ticket.

Understanding the Consequences of Paying a Traffic Ticket in Maryland

For most people, paying a traffic ticket in Maryland has three main consequences:

1. Fines

When you pay a traffic ticket, you are paying a fine. As mentioned above, paying your ticket means acknowledging that you are guilty, and the amount you pay to the court is a fine for violating the law. The fines for different traffic violations vary significantly, and even if you can afford to pay your ticket now, you could face increased fines as a repeat offender if you get pulled over again.  

2. Driver’s License Points

In addition to your fine, you will also have points applied to your driver’s license. Similar to fines, the points for different traffic violations also vary. While most minor violations carry just one point, convictions for more serious traffic violations can result in up to 12 points being applied to your license.

Not only are the points on your driving record public information, but they can also lead to further consequences. These consequences include:

• 5 to 7 Points – If you accumulate five to seven points in two years, you will be required to enroll in a Driver Improvement Program.
• 8 to 11 Points – If you accumulate eight to eleven points in two years, your driver’s license will be subject to suspension.
• 12 or More Points – If you accumulate twelve or more points in two years, your driver’s license will be subject to revocation.

3. Increased Auto Insurance Premiums

Since the points on your driving record are public information, they are available to your insurance company. Accumulating any points on your record will increase your auto insurance premiums. This can add thousands of dollars to the cost of your traffic ticket in Maryland.

Discuss Your Situation with a Maryland Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Confidence

If you need to know more about the consequences of getting a traffic ticket in Maryland (and what you can do to fight your ticket), we encourage you to get in touch. Please call 443-405-8211 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.