Commercial drivers understand the gravity of receiving a speeding ticket, but with the right guidance, it's possible to challenge these citations.
This blog post will examine the complexities of commercial vehicle speeding citations, the consequences, and how to dispute them effectively.
The Consequences of Commercial Vehicle Speeding in CA
CA imposes varying penalties based on the driver’s speed. However, commercial vehicle speeding can be much more expensive than that for a non-commercial driver:
- Speeding 1-9 mph over the limit: an approximately $285 fine and 1.5 NOTS points.
- Speeding 10-14 mph over the limit: around a $500 fine and 1.5 NOTS points.
- Speeding 15 mph or more over the limit: potential $1,000 fine, 1.5 NOTS points, county jail or probation, and a misdemeanor record.
A conviction for a commercial vehicle speeding ticket of 15 or more mph over the statewide 55 is a misdemeanor. You should make no statement and consult a CA traffic attorney immediately.
Once the CA DMV assesses these NOTS points, they'll notify the FMCSA.
Depending on the severity of the commercial vehicle speeding violation, the FMCSA will levy Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity points.
Particularly concerning is a conviction for 15 or more mph over the 55 mph limit, which can attract a maximum of ten severity points and a "serious offense" designation on the driver's Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for three years.
Furthermore, any construction zone speeding in a commercial vehicle will also bring maximum severity points and a serious offense designation. A second conviction during the three-year period will result in a 60-day disqualification, a third to 120 days, and a fourth results in a one-year disqualification but could permanently halt a commercial driver's career.
Proactive Measures to Avoid Speeding Tickets
For commercial drivers, maintaining a clean driving record is crucial.
By following these steps, commercial drivers can minimize the chances of getting a speeding ticket:
- Always adhere to posted speed limits.
- Stay updated with changes in road and weather conditions and match your speed to the visibility, stopping distances, road conditions, and traffic.
- Attend fleet defensive driving courses periodically.
- Use technological aids, such as speed “governors” and verbal alerts.
In essence, staying informed and vigilant can largely eliminate the risk of commercial vehicle speeding citations.
However, regardless of our vigilance, speeding tickets happen.
Consult a Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney
Legal intricacies for speeding tickets can be challenging. Frequently, drivers neglect to consult a traffic attorney because they believe it will cost too much and they won’t understand the legalese.
We understand and recognize those concerns. By turning to us, Bigger & Harman, APC, seasoned traffic ticket defense attorneys, drivers get clarity, guidance, and the best chances to successfully dispute their speeding ticket.
We eliminate legal jargon, guide you through the process with straightforward advice, and protect your rights.
With our knowledge and experience, drivers can confidently face and potentially overcome the hurdles of a commercial vehicle speeding ticket.
Contact Bigger & Harman for Help with a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Ticket
Bigger & Harman is a traffic defense law firm that has experienced and knowledgeable traffic attorneys in the County of San Joaquin Courthouse in Stockton, CA.
A commercial driver with a traffic ticket for a moving violation is more than a temporary inconvenience; it could mean a significant risk to their very livelihood.
Truck drivers shouldn’t jeopardize losing their commercial driver’s license at the whims of the traffic court judge. Hire our experienced and knowledgeable traffic attorneys in San Joaquin County, who will start working out your defense strategy today.
Call us at (661) 349-9300, utilize our handy online contact form or email us attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.