A commercial lane violation can significantly impact a driver’s career and carrier’s reputation.
CA traffic laws restrict commercial vehicles to specific lanes to maintain traffic flow and safety.
“A vehicle subject to Section 22406 shall be driven in a lane designated pursuant to Section 21655, or if a lane has not been so designated, in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb.”— CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22348(c), Speed Laws.
The second lane can be used for overtaking slower vehicles.
Violations of this law are often referred to as "third lane violations."
Let’s examine a few legal tips to help drivers handle these infractions.
Legal Defenses for Commercial Lane Violations
Emergencies may force commercial vehicles into restricted lanes.
These include swerving to avoid accidents, reckless drivers, or animals. Road closures, construction, or accidents may also leave commercial drivers no alternative.
On highways with three or four lanes, commercial drivers may need to use the left lane for safe left turns. A skilled attorney can highlight such scenarios to build a strong defense.
The Impact of a Violation
A commercial lane violation typically results in a $238 fine and 1.5 NOTS points. The DMV reports these to the FMCSA, leading to CSA severity points and a mark on the Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record. This can hurt job prospects and pay negotiations.
Trucking companies often have strict no-tolerance policies for moving violations.
Termination might follow even a minor infraction. CSA severity points and time-weight multipliers increase the carrier's SMS percentile, potentially jeopardizing their compliance status and raising their fleet insurance premium.
Why Consult a CDL Traffic Attorney?
Hiring a CDL traffic attorney improves your chances of reducing penalties or dismissing charges.
An experienced lawyer in Victorville, San Bernardino County, CA, knows the local court procedures and processes.
They may negotiate larger fines to avoid the assignment points when the driver agrees. This “no-point conviction”protects your CDL and job security.
Defending against a commercial lane violation is vital to maintaining a clean record and career stability.
Consult a CDL traffic attorney today to ensure your rights are protected.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
“I was issued a CDL speeding ticket, by CHP no less, going 68 as semi-trucks are only allowed 55 in all CA, but Bigger & Harmon had my back. They kept me up to date with the progress, and then on court date, DISMISSED! I'm truly grateful for their efficiency and professionalism!”—Bayardo R., Downy, CA.
Consult Bigger & Harman About a Commercial Lane Violation in Victorville
If you’ve been issued a citation for a commercial lane violation on I-15 that requires resolution in Victorville Courthouse in San Bernardino County, CA, call us at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Use the convenient contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
CA VC Section 22348(c), Speed Laws.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.