For commercial drivers, a clean driving record is their golden ticket. Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders must consult a commercial driver traffic attorney to dispute all moving violations.
Unlike noncommercial drivers, commercial drive traffic violations in commercial vehicles carry a heavier weight due to the 1.5 Negligent Operator Treatment Systems (NOTS) point accumulation rate after a conviction or paid fine. This is 50% higher than in a noncommercial vehicle.
A single ticket can significantly impact your career. Here at Bigger & Harman, APC, our Nevada County commercial driver traffic attorneys have over a decade of experience safeguarding the livelihoods of drivers like you.
California's Heightened Standards for Commercial Drivers
The responsibilities entrusted to commercial drivers necessitate stricter regulations. From operating typically heavier vehicles and transporting hazardous materials to ensuring passenger safety, commercial drivers play a crucial safety role on California's roads.
The FMCSA and the CA DMV enforce a comprehensive set of rules governing everything from mandatory rest periods and driving hour limitations to specialized vehicle inspections.
These elevated standards translate to harsher penalties for traffic violations. A minor infraction for a noncommercial driver could result in the inconvenience of a fine, NOTS points, and even a suspended license, but for a commercial driver, it could mean the end of a career.
This is why seeking legal representation from a commercial driver traffic attorney is critical.
Our team at Bigger & Harman, APC, can provide the experienced defense you need to protect your driving record and career.
Our Representation Covers a Wide Range of Commercial Driving Issues
Our commercial driver traffic attorneys handle a variety of legal matters, including:
DMV NOTS hearings and added leeway before suspension due to more miles driven.
Unsafe lane change violations
Tailgating or following too close tickets
Passing Scales Violations
Non-Emergency Stops on the highway
Hours of Service (HOS) Violations
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Facing Commercial Driver Traffic Violations
Navigating commercial driver traffic violations without legal guidance can lead to costly mistakes.
Here are some frequent pitfalls to be aware of:
Ignoring the Ticket: This can lead to harsher penalties like license suspension and bench warrants.
Self-Representation: Traffic law is complex, and representing yourself can have negative consequences. Traffic ticket convictions can be much more difficult to appeal.
Pleading Guilty: Paying the fine without contesting the charges can quickly accumulate points.
Failing to Collect Evidence: Witness statements and dashcam footage can strengthen your defense.
Unfamiliarity with Legal Rights: Understanding your rights empowers you to make informed decisions.
How Bigger & Harman, APC Protects Your Commercial Driving Privileges
Our experienced Nevada County commercial driver traffic attorneys can help you avoid these common pitfalls and navigate the complexities of traffic law.
Here's what you can expect when you choose Bigger & Harman, APC:
Comprehensive Legal Representation: We ensure you don't ignore your ticket and face further consequences.
Expert Negotiation Skills: We leverage our legal knowledge to negotiate favorable outcomes (potentially—there are no guarantees).
Client Education: We empower you throughout the legal process by explaining your rights and options.
Entrusting your case to our commercial driver traffic attorneys significantly increases your chances of protecting your commercial driver's license and livelihood.
Serving Many CA Counties
Our traffic ticket practice extends to courts across California. Our familiarity with local court personnel and law enforcement allows us to develop effective defense strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Our ultimate goal? Helping you keep your license and minimize the impact of your commercial driver traffic violation.
Benefits of Choosing Bigger & Harman, APC
When you choose Bigger & Harman, APC, you benefit from:
Skilled representation from a traffic attorney with a 9.4 Superb Avvo Rating
Flexible appointment scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and phone consultations
Spanish-speaking services
Personalized attention to your unique case
We invite you to review how our top-quality services have helped past clients achieve successful outcomes.
Contact the Bigger & Harman Commercial Driver Traffic Attorney for a Free Initial Consultation
Contact Bigger & Harman, APC, today to discuss your case and protect your commercial driving privileges.
Call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300. Se habla Español (661) 349-9755. Use our contact form to send a picture of your ticket/violation or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.