Reckless Endangerment in Maryland is a specified crime.
Updated 3/29/2020Just how reckless must you be to be charged with Reckless Endangerment under Maryland law?
If you're prepared for a misdemeanor charge with a sentence of up to 5 years or $5,000 fine there are a few things to remember.
One common misconception is a person driving a vehicle in a reckless manner is reckless endangerment. That thought is incorrect. While "reckless driving" is a specified crime (with a hefty price tag), it is not "reckless endangerment."
Reckless Driving, TA§ 21-901.1 is when a person drives a motor vehicle: (1) In wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property; or (2) In a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property.
Compare that to Reckless Endangerment.
What Reckless Endangerment IS:
- Conduct that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another; or
- Discharge a firearm from a motor vehicle that creates substantial risk of death of serious physical injury to another.
What Reckless Endangerment IS NOT:
- Use of a motor vehicle that creates a risk of death or serious physical injury to another; or
- Manufacture/production/sale of a product or commodity that creates a risk of death or serious physical injury to another.
Penalty:
A sentence of up to 5 years or $5,000 fine.
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