Commercial Driver’s License: Understanding Traffic Violations

 Posted on October 02, 2014 in Commercial Drivers License

When it comes to Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), the laws are stricter and hold drivers at a higher standard than other types of drivers. With a larger vehicle comes a larger responsibility to ensuring the safety and well being of pedestrians and drivers. For this reason, this is why commercial drivers have greater repercussions when a traffic violation occurs.

By understanding traffic violations and the repercussions for violating them, you will prevent receiving a ticket, being fined, possible jail time, as well as ensure that you will keep your CDL.

Serious Traffic Violations:

• Speeding (15 mph or above the posted speed limit)
• Wreckless driving
• Improper lane use or changes
• Driving without a current CDL
• Driving without the proper endorsements

Major Traffic Violations For CDL Drivers:

• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Refusal to perform an alcohol/sobriety test
• Operating while under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances
• Negligent driving, resulting in a casualty
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Committing a felony while using your vehicle
• Driving with a suspended, revoked, or expired CDL
• Using your vehicle to distribute, manufacture, or dispense of any controlled substance

Penalties For Traffic Violations:

When a CDL operator is convicted of any of the above, penalties can consist of anything from: suspension of your CDL, points against your driving record, revocation of your CDL, fines, as well as jail time, however, these are all dependent on the severity and frequency of your traffic violations. In addition to these potentially harmful penalties, drivers with a CDL risk losing their job and higher insurance rates.

If you have been convicted of any other these traffic violations, it is best to consult with a traffic ticket lawyer. Contact the lawyers at Cosley Law to ensure your case is handled appropriately and professionally.