The immediate consequence for overweight trucks in CA is typically a fine of $1.00 per pound overweight. When the vehicle is 4,501 pounds over, it is a misdemeanor crime, and a conviction could lead to jail or probation of up to six months in county jail; and/or a base fine of $1,000.
The base fine is subject to state and county surcharges, assessments, and penalties that could make the total five times more than the base fine.
What Traffic Code Applies to Overweight Trucks?
Overweight trucks are a serious issue in CA and across the country, as they put the safety of other drivers on the road at risk and can cause damage to roadways and bridges. CA Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 35784, Permits and Agreements, are strict regulations to address the problem of overweight trucks and ensure the safety of all drivers on the state's highways.
The current fine for driving an overweight truck in CA is around $1.00 per pound for every pound exceeding the legal weight limit. The minimum fine is usually $238. This fine can add up quickly at higher weights, resulting in a substantial penalty for trucking companies and drivers. The weight limit for commercial trucks varies depending on the number of axles and the type of cargo being transported, but the maximum weight limit without a permit, which must be procured before entering the state, is typically 80,000 pounds.
For further clarification, read our blog post, “Who Can Help Me with an Overweight Truck Ticket in Truckee, CA?”
Is It Really Possible to Go to Jail for an Overweight Truck?
Overweight trucks are a serious issue in CA and across the country, as they put the safety of other drivers on the road at risk and can cause damage to roadways and bridges. The CA Vehicle Code has strict regulations in place to address the problem of overweight trucks and ensure the safety of all drivers on the state's highways. Sometimes, those regulations seem too strict.
In addition to fines, driving an overweight truck that is 4,501 pounds or more overweight is considered a misdemeanor in CA. This means that a truck driver who is convicted of this crime could face up to six months in the county jail or probation. That criminal record can have a lasting impact on a truck driver's career.
Avoiding these penalties is imperative for trucking companies and drivers to understand the regulations for overweight trucks in CA and to take steps to ensure their vehicles follow the law. These steps include regularly checking their trucks' weight and ensuring that their cargo is properly loaded and secured.
Trucking companies and drivers can also take advantage of the resources available to help them comply with the law. For example, the CA Department of Transportation (Caltrans) offers a truck enforcement program that provides information and guidance to help trucking companies and drivers comply with the state's weight and size regulations.
Before leaving the shipping yard, it is the shipping company's responsibility to ensure the truck and trailer, or container are under the limit. However, it becomes the driver's responsibility once the driver passes through the gate. Several private for-a-fee weigh stations exist around the Long Beach or Los Angeles ports. It might cost you a fee, but it is much less than a fine for an overweight truck.
For further clarification, read our blog, Drivers Can Get Stuck with a $10,000 Fine for an Overweight Truck Around the Ports in LA County.
In conclusion, the penalties for driving an overweight truck can be severe, including substantial fines and possible jail time. To avoid these penalties and ensure the safety of all drivers, trucking companies and drivers should be aware of the regulations for overweight trucks and take steps to comply with the law, including using technology to monitor their vehicles and taking advantage of the resources available to help them comply with the regulations.
Despite routinely applying methods to mitigate overweight trucks, accidents happen. Contact a CA traffic attorney for advice and guidance when cited for an oversized or overweight vehicle without a permit.
Call or contact Bigger & Harman for Advice on Your Overweight Trucks Tickets in Truckee, CA
The legal professionals at Bigger & Harman are ready to receive your call at (661) 349-9300. You can also reach us with our user-friendly contact form or by emailing attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
We have experience and knowledge of CA traffic law and how it applies in the Truckee Courthouse. Give us a call about your overweight truck or any traffic ticket.
Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
CVC Section 35784, Permits and Agreements.