For professional drivers in California, the consequences of speeding in a commercial vehicle can be far-reaching, impacting your wallet and your career.

Unlike regular speeding tickets, speeding in a commercial vehicle carries steeper fines, 50% more negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points, and potential federal penalties.

At Bigger & Harman, we understand the unique challenges commercial drivers face, and we are here to guide you through the legal maze.

Three Speeds, Three Levels of Possible Consequences

California imposes a tiered system for speeding in a commercial vehicle:

1. 1-9 mph over: Expect a fine around $285 and 1.5 NOTS points (Negligent Operator Treatment System).
2. 10-14 mph over: The fine jumps to roughly $500, with 1.5 NOTS points.
3. 15 mph or more over: This could mean a $1,000 fine, three NOTS 1.5, possible jail time or probation, and a misdemeanor record.

Federal Fallout: When the DOT FMCSA Weighs In

Beyond state penalties, the CA DMV notifies the FMCSA about moving violation convictions. The FMCSA assigns its own Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity points depending on your speed. For exceeding the 55 mph limit for commercial vehicles by 15 mph or more, you could face:

• Up to ten CSA severity points
• A "serious offense" mark on your Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) for three years.
• The same applies to any speeding in a commercial vehicle within a construction zone.

A second speeding in a commercial vehicle conviction within three years of the first leads to a 60-day driving disqualification. A third doubles that to 120 days, and a fourth takes you off the road for a year – potentially ending your career.

Preventing a Speeding in a Commercial Vehicle Ticket

Thankfully, you can minimize the risk of speeding in a commercial vehicle:

• Always be aware of the speed limit.
• Use in-vehicle speed alerts and a governor.
• Adjust your speed for weather and road conditions.
• Maintain a safe following distance.
• Prioritize safety over tight deadlines.

But when prevention fails, consult a CA traffic attorney immediately.

Consult Bigger & Harman, APC, about Speeding in a Commercial Vehicle in Sacramento, CA

If you face charges for speeding in a commercial vehicle, don't panic. Our knowledgeable attorneys can ease your mind, explain the legal options, and develop a tailored defense strategy. We're committed to minimizing your penalties and protecting your license and career. Contact us today for a free initial consultation and see how we can help.

Call us at (661) 349-9300. Alternatively, you can use the convenient contact form or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.

Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.

Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.

References:

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.

The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.