Speeding in a commercial vehicle can result in serious consequences for professional drivers.
Understanding CA speed laws and penalties is critical, especially for those ticketed while driving through Roseville in Placer County, CA.
What the CA Traffic Code Says About Speeding in a Commercial Vehicle
According to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Sections 22406 and 22406.1, Speed Laws, the maximum speed for most commercial vehicles is 55 mph statewide.
Exceeding this limit by 15 mph or more is a misdemeanor, which means going 70 mph, even to meet a delivery deadline, could leave you with a criminal record.
Always consult a CA traffic attorney before paying fines or challenging tickets in court.
Penalties for Speeding in a Commercial Vehicle
Speeding penalties for commercial vehicles are stricter than for passenger cars.
Here's the breakdown:
1-9 mph over the limit: Fines around $285, plus 1.5 NOTS points for three years.
10-14 mph over: Fines increase to between $459 to $550, with 1.5 NOTS points for a moving violation.
15+ mph over: Fines could be up to $1,000, 1.5 NOTS points for up to ten years, possible jail time or probation, and a misdemeanor conviction.
Federal Consequences for Commercial Drivers
Speeding convictions for commercial vehicles are reported to the DOT FMCSA.
This can result in:
Up to ten CSA severity points, which may triple with time-weight factors.
A "serious offense" mark on the driver’s PSP record, lasting three years.
Higher DOT FMCSA Safety Measurement System (SMS) percentiles for carriers, affecting fleet safety and insurance rates.
Repeat offenses can lead to driver disqualification:
60 days for a second offense
120 days for a third
A one-year disqualification for a fourth
A lifetime ban for continued violations
Even a third conviction for a serious offense is unlikely with the same trucking firm.
A fleet managers typically terminate drivers when they get a 60-day disqualification. What’s the sense of holding a seat open for a driver who raises your fleet insurance and can’t drive?
Tips to Prevent Speeding Tickets
Know and follow speed limits, especially in school or construction zones.
Use speed governors or in-vehicle alerts to avoid accidental speeding.
Adjust for road conditions like traffic, rain, or fog.
Keep a safe following distance to prevent following too close violations and collisions.
Prioritize safety over meeting tight deadlines.
Why You Need a CA Traffic Attorney’s Assistance
Hiring a CA traffic attorney can improve your chances of avoiding severe penalties.
They could secure a no-point conviction, a reduced fine, or even a dismissal.
Don’t let a speeding ticket jeopardize your career. Seek professional legal help to protect your driving record and livelihood.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Disputing a Speeding in a Commercial Vehicle Ticket in Roseville Courthouse
If you have a ticket for speeding in a commercial vehicle that needs to be resolved in Roseville Courthouse, contact Bigger & Harman for a free initial consultation at (661) 349-9300— Se habla Español 349-9755.
Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com, or use our handy contact form online.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.
CA VC Sections 22406 & 22406.1, Speed Laws.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.