Driving is a privilege, not a right, and that privilege can be temporarily withdrawn or permanently revoked for a variety of reasons. In Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has the authority to suspend or revoke a driver’s license. The suspension or revocation of a license is not only a significant inconvenience but also a legal matter that can lead to more severe penalties if not addressed correctly and promptly. This post will discuss the various reasons why a person’s driver’s license might be suspended in Maryland.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Impaired (DWI)
Maryland, especially Baltimore County, takes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs very seriously. If a driver is convicted of DUI (Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC of 0.08% or higher) or DWI, they risk a suspension of their driver’s license. The length of the suspension varies depending on the severity of the offense and whether it’s a first or subsequent violation. Additionally, a refusal to provide a breath sample upon demand by a police officer in Maryland can increase the length of the suspension.
Accumulation of Points
In Maryland, the MVA operates a point system where drivers accumulate points on their driver record for traffic violations. If a driver accumulates 8 to 11 points within a two-year period, their license may be suspended. If they accumulate 12 or more points, their license could be revoked.
Failure to Appear in Court or Pay Fines
If a driver fails to respond to a traffic citation, does not pay a traffic fine, or fails to appear in court when notified to do so, their license can be suspended.
Non-Compliance with Maryland’s Insurance Law
Maryland law requires all vehicles to be insured. If the MVA receives a notification that a driver’s insurance policy has been canceled and not replaced, they can suspend the driver’s vehicle registration privileges and may also suspend the driver’s license.
Failure to Pay Child Support
Under the Child Support Enforcement Administration, a driver’s license can be suspended if a person fails to pay child support. The suspension remains in effect until the individual has made the necessary payments and compliance is reported to the MVA.
Medical or Physical Fitness Concerns
The MVA has the right to suspend a license if they believe the driver is physically or mentally unfit to drive safely. This can be based on a report from a healthcare provider, a law enforcement officer, or following an accident that suggests a medical condition may have been the cause.
Traffic Violations Resulting in Death or Serious Injury
If a driver is found guilty of a traffic violation that results in the death or serious injury of another person, their license can be suspended or revoked.
Convictions for Non-Traffic Criminal Offenses
Non-traffic criminal offenses involving a vehicle, such as vehicular manslaughter, auto theft, or felony involving a motor vehicle can also lead to a suspension.
Driving While Suspended Attorney in Towson, MD
Maintaining one’s driving privilege in Maryland requires responsibility, adherence to traffic laws, and awareness of the reasons for potential license suspension. If you are facing a potential license suspension, it is crucial to seek legal advice to understand your rights and obligations. It is also important to remember that driving with a suspended license is a serious traffic offense in Maryland, with penalties including fines and jail time. Therefore, understanding the causes of license suspension and taking proactive measures to avoid such consequences is an important part of being a responsible driver.
Our Baltimore County, MD criminal defense law firm has extensive experience successfully helping people who are accused of driving while suspended. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with an award-winning criminal defense attorney if you have been charged with driving while suspended.
