Commercial vehicle speeding is an issue that carries significant risks and consequences for commercial driver's license (CDL) holders.
The Consequences of a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Conviction
The most immediate impact of a commercial vehicle speeding conviction is the fine.
In California, this can range from $238 to $800. However, the monetary penalty is only the tip of the iceberg. For CDL holders, a speeding conviction can also result in points added to their driving record through the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS). Accumulate too many points, and you may face license suspension or revocation of your CDL.
Furthermore, the potential damage to your professional reputation is considerable. If you're part of a large, high-paying fleet, a commercial vehicle speeding conviction could lead to termination.
Any moving violation affects the fleet insurance premium, and one of the most pressing issues for fleet managers is keeping the fleet insurance premium low. If you happen to be the first driver to get a commercial vehicle speeding ticket conviction after a premium raise, you might face the axe. Therefore, the true cost of a speeding ticket goes beyond the initial fine—it could affect your career trajectory and earning potential.
Traffic Violators School Is Not Available for Commercial Vehicle Speeding Tickets
For most drivers, attending traffic violator's school (TVS) following a moving violation can prevent negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points from becoming public record.
Unfortunately, commercial drivers do not get the same treatment.
In fact, commercial drivers ticketed in their commercial vehicles cannot take traffic school at all. If commercial drivers receive a ticket in their private vehicle, they can take traffic school to prevent a point being assessed. However, the traffic school will not mask the conviction for the underlying offense. In other words, insurance, employers, the federal government, and law enforcement will be able to see that a conviction occurred and for what violation. Obviously, traffic school should only be used as a last resort for Class A drivers.
Why Hiring a CA Traffic Attorney Is a Must for CDL Holders
When faced with a commercial vehicle speeding ticket, consulting a CA traffic attorney is essential. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, potentially helping you negotiate a no-point conviction, reduce the penalties associated with your citation, or get a dismissal.
Remember, any moving violation stays on your driving record for at least three years, affecting your insurance rates and future job prospects. For CDL holders, these violations also show up on your Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record at the DOT FMCSA, impacting your employability and negotiating power within the industry.
In short, commercial vehicle speeding is an issue that no CDL holder can afford to take lightly. The fines, NOTS points, potential job loss, and long-term damage to your professional record are all factors that need careful consideration.
Here at the Bigger & Harman, CA Traffic Attorney Law Firm, we're equipped to assist you in these challenging circumstances. Our team has the knowledge and experience to help mitigate the repercussions of a commercial vehicle speeding conviction. So, if you find yourself facing a speeding ticket, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help protect your livelihood.
“I got a speeding ticket driving up the 5 freeway a few months back. Thomas took my case and got it dismissed. I highly recommend them. Thank you!”—Alex h., Burbank, CA.
Consult with Bigger & Harman About Your Commercial Vehicle Speeding Ticket
While the Barstow Traffic Court is closed, most commercial vehicle speeding tickets on I-15 will be resolved in Victorville Traffic Court in San Bernardino County, CA.
Call us at (661) 349-9300. Likewise, you can use the convenient contact form or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com them.
Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
CVC Sections 22406 & 22406.1, Speed Laws.
The DOT FMCSA CFR Part 383.31, Notification of Convictions for Driver Violations.