When driving a commercial vehicle through Truckee, on I-80 in Nevada County, CA, understanding the laws surrounding speeding is crucial.
Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard than non-commercial drivers, especially when it comes to speed limits.
Speeding Laws for Commercial Vehicles in California
California has strict speed limits for commercial vehicles.
While many passenger vehicles can travel up to 70 mph, commercial vehicles are restricted to 55 mph statewide, according to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406, Speed Laws.
These limits apply to most commercial vehicles, including those requiring a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Unfortunately, many out-of-state CDL holders are unaware of these regulations, particularly those heading to the Bay area on I-80.
Many consider it more convenient and less costly to pay the fine for speeding in a commercial vehicle rather than challenge the ticket. However, many don’t realize that hiring an experienced traffic attorney could lead to a reduced, no point conviction or a dismissal.
Either means the driver avoids demerit points in California or their home state. No points sometimes means the DOT FMCSA will not be notified or that the original violation can be contested. The DMV typically only notifies the FMCSA about moving violations.
The Role of a Traffic Attorney in Speeding Cases
Traffic court judges often show leniency when they see a CDL holder only trying to make a living, especially when they hire a CA traffic attorney to adjudicate their case.
By hiring an experienced traffic attorney, CDL holders increase their chances of having the speeding charge reduced or dismissed. Judges are usually sympathetic to commercial drivers working long hours and serving the economy, and they may be willing to avoid a conviction that could jeopardize a driver’s career.
Consequences of Speeding in a Commercial Vehicle
Although the fine for a speeding ticket in a commercial vehicle is around $550 to $800, it comes with more serious consequences than for non-commercial drivers.
California assesses 1.5 Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points for even minor infractions, such as speeding convictions in a commercial vehicle. This is 50% more than the points non-commercial drivers receive.
If a CDL holder accumulates four or more NOTS points within one year, six in two years, or eight within three years, they could face suspension of their commercial driving privileges in California.
The California DMV allows for exceptions based on the number of miles driven. This could offer more leeway for those who drive extensively for work. However, it would require the driver to attend a DMV NOTS hearing.
How NOTS Points Can Lead to Suspension
Once a driver accumulates too many points, the DMV may issue an Order of Suspension/Probation.
At this point, the driver has 10 days to request a DMV NOTS hearing. This hearing is an opportunity to challenge points and possibly avoid suspension.
If you’re facing suspension/probation, hiring a traffic attorney can be helpful.
They are familiar with traffic court procedures and can often secure a better outcome. They could potentially get a conviction or faulty accident report thrown out, reducing the number of NOTS points on your record, or secure additional leeway depending on the number of miles driven in your CMV.
How to Dispute a Speeding in Commercial Vehicle with a Traffic Attorney
If you've received a speeding ticket for speeding in a commercial vehicle in Truckee, Nevada County, CA, it's essential to act quickly.
A traffic attorney can help you dispute the ticket and protect your CDL. With their experience in traffic court, they can often secure better outcomes, such as reducing the points or avoiding suspension. Don’t let a speeding ticket harm your career—contact a traffic attorney today to explore your legal options.
Contact Bigger & Harman to Resolve Your Moving Violation in Truckee Traffic Court
If you received a speeding in a commercial vehicle ticket on I-80 that needs resolution in Truckee Courthouse in Nevada County, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300 — Se habla Español 349-9755.
Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our to schedule a no-cost consultation.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
CVC Sections 22406 & 22406.1, Speed Laws.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.