How to Prevent a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Conviction
When you operate a commercial vehicle, it's essential to understand the regulations and laws governing your driving behavior, particularly regarding speed limits.
In CA, commercial vehicle drivers are subject to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406, Other Speed Laws, which sets the statewide speed limit for commercial vehicles at 55 mph. This restriction typically applies to vehicles with three or more axles, such as:
“(a) A motortruck or truck tractor having three or more axles or any motortruck or truck tractor drawing any other vehicle.
(b) A passenger vehicle or bus drawing any other vehicle.
(c) A school bus transporting any school pupil.
(d) A farm labor vehicle when transporting passengers.
(e) A vehicle transporting explosives.
(f) A trailer bus.”
Therefore, even a non-commercial vehicle hauling a trailer or with more than two axles is subject to the 55 mph speed limit.
How Much Is the Fine for a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Conviction
Preventing a commercial vehicle speeding conviction should be a top priority for drivers.
While fines for commercial speeding convictions vary depending on the severity of the violation, they are substantial. Most commercial drivers end up paying fines ranging from $366 to $800 for exceeding the speed limit by only a few miles per hour.
In preventing speeding tickets and the associated fines, it is crucial to prioritize situational awareness, obeying posted speed limits, and exercising extra caution when driving through business districts or areas with reduced speed limits, such as school and construction zones (these areas can double your fine if convicted).
However, it's not just about the fine; a commercial speeding conviction can have far-reaching consequences on your driving career. A clean driving record is vital for high-paying jobs with large trucking fleets.
The Hidden Consequences of a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Conviction
The fine for a commercial speeding conviction is just the beginning.
Any conviction of a moving violation can negatively impact your career as a commercial driver. When the CA DMV receives notification of a paid fine or conviction, they assess 1.5 Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points. Additionally, they notify the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
The FMCSA, in turn, assesses Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity points, directly correlating with the number of miles per hour over the speed limit for which you were convicted. These CSA points remain on your Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for three years, affecting your ability to negotiate pay and benefits with your fleet manager.
It is essential to consult a traffic attorney with experience in handling commercial speeding tickets in Merced County, CA, to mitigate these consequences.
Always Consult a Traffic Attorney with Experience in Los Banos, CA, Traffic Court
If you find yourself facing a commercial speeding ticket, it's crucial to seek legal representation immediately. A Merced County traffic attorney experienced in Los Banos Traffic Court can be your advocate in disputing the charges effectively.
Our team frequently represents commercial drivers in situations like these. We understand that any conviction of a moving violation can jeopardize your career, so we work to explore all possible avenues to reduce the charges to a non-moving violation with no points or strive for dismissal.
While there are no guarantees in legal proceedings, having an attorney with experience in this area significantly improves your chances of a favorable outcome.
Preventing a commercial speeding conviction is essential to protecting your career and livelihood as a commercial driver. Following speed limits, practicing situational awareness, and seeking legal representation when necessary are steps to minimize the risks of commercial speeding tickets.
Contact Bigger & Harman to Prevent a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Conviction Possibly
Although there are no guarantees, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300, use our convenient online contact form, or email us attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
We offer commercial drivers a free, no-obligation initial consultation — even by phone or email. Let’s discuss your situation, and we’ll let you know what we can do for you and how much it will cost to resolve your traffic ticket.
Moreover, we won’t need you to appear in court to resolve your commercial vehicle speeding ticket in Los Banos Courthouse in Merced County.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.
CA VC Section 22406, Speed Laws.