The cost of commercial vehicle speeding can be much more than just a traffic ticket.
As a commercial vehicle driver, you know time is money. You have deadlines to meet and deliveries to make. It's tempting to speed in order to get to your destination faster. In this blog post, we'll explore the consequences of a commercial vehicle speeding violation and why you need a traffic attorney if you find yourself in legal trouble.
The Consequences of Commercial Vehicle Speeding
The first consequence of commercial vehicle speeding is a ticket and possible court appearance, though most commercial drivers know they do not have time to sit in traffic court waiting for their names to be called while someone else makes their delivery, which is not an option. Paying the fine to avoid going to court might lead to the termination of your driving position.
If caught speeding, you will be issued a ticket, which can result in fines, points on your license, and increased fleet insurance premiums, which could jeopardize your position.
However, the consequences of commercial vehicle speeding can be much more severe. The weight and size of a commercial vehicle make it more dangerous to other drivers on the road. Commercial vehicle accidents can result in serious injury or even death. If you are found to be at fault for an accident due to speeding, you could be held liable for damages, which could cost you and your trucking company a significant amount of money.
Another consequence of commercial vehicle speeding is the possibility of losing your commercial driver's license (CDL). Speeding 15 mph over the speed limit, safe driving speed due to conditions, or in a construction zone is a DOT FMCSA serious offense. A second conviction will lead to a 60-day driver disqualification. You might think you’d never drive 15 mph over the speed limit, but when you get used to driving 65 or 70 mph in other states and cross into CA, where the speed limit for most commercial vehicles is 55, you might get a surprise visit at your rig by a CHP’s officer.
How a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Attorney Can Help
If you are facing a speeding ticket or other legal issues, a traffic attorney specializing in commercial vehicle speeding can help. Here are some ways a commercial vehicle speeding attorney can assist you:
Reduced Fines and Penalties
A commercial vehicle speeding attorney can sometimes negotiate with the traffic court judge to reduce the fines and penalties associated with your ticket. This can save you money and help you avoid points on your license.
Reduced or Eliminate Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) Points
Commercial vehicle speeding attorneys can negotiate a no-point conviction with the judge. Whereas you might still pay a hefty fine, when there are no points for a moving violation, no notification of the points is sent to the DMV. This is important because accumulating too many points can result in the loss of your CDL.
Possible Dismissal of Charges
In some cases, commercial vehicle speeding attorneys can get the charges against you dismissed entirely. This is especially crucial if you face a serious offense, which could result in a driver’s disqualification. Most fleet managers will not hold your seat while you ride out your 60-day disqualification.
Legal Representation in Court
If you must go to court to fight your ticket (for commercial drivers, it is a must to avoid possible termination), a commercial vehicle speeding attorney can represent you. They will have the legal knowledge and experience necessary to present a strong defense on your behalf.
Conclusion
Commercial vehicle speeding can have serious consequences. If you are facing a commercial vehicle speeding ticket or other legal issues related to speeding, it's important to seek the help of a traffic attorney who is experienced and dedicated in fighting commercial vehicle speeding.
A commercial vehicle speeding attorney can possibly help reduce fines and penalties, negotiate a no-point conviction, get charges dismissed, and provide legal representation in court. By working with a traffic attorney, you can protect your CDL, your job, and your livelihood.
Consult Bigger & Harman, APC, Today
When you have a commercial vehicle speeding ticket pending in Roseville, CA Traffic Court, call the Bigger & Harman Traffic Defense Team at (661) 349-9300 or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Use our convenient contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation by phone, zoom, or email.
Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
CVC Section 22406 & 22406.1, Other Speed Laws.
The FMCSA CFR 49 Part 383.51, Driver Disqualifications.