In order to be a professional truck driver, it requires an individual to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). That’s why when an individual loses his or her CDL it can reap serious consequences for those in California. This is why it is so important to consult with a qualified traffic attorney, who can help you with these charges. A traffic ticket can jeopardize your CDL and therefore your means for making a living. It is imperative that you understand what is at stake and that you have someone you can turn to should such a situation arise.
It may appear that one traffic ticket isn’t a big deal, but regardless of whether or not your drive professionally, the charge has the potential to greatly impact much of your personal life. For those who are professional drivers the stakes are that much higher.
CDL Drivers in California
It is always important that drivers follow the rules of the road. However, for anyone in California who has a commercial driver’s license the responsibility to follow all traffic rules and guidelines is even more imperative. Traffic citations of any type can result in the suspension of your California CDL. This can often lead to a loss of money due to the payment of fines as well as a loss of income due to the suspension of your license and inability to earn a living.
Off-Duty Traffic Violations Can Impact Your CDL
Incurring off-duty citations can have a significant impact on one’s ability to earn an income as well as their CDL depending on their employer’s individual tolerance and policies. Some employers have mandatory probation periods or may have a zero-tolerance policy and may fire the driver immediately.
Those convicted twice of off-duty traffic violations within a three-year period may incur serious penalties. Such violations include:
• Following too closely
• Reckless driving
• Excessive speeding (more than15 mph over the limit)
• Any violation involving alcohol or drugs
• Erratic or improper lane changes
Suspended CDLs in California
Your CDL may be suspended for a variety of reasons. It is likely that you will receive a one-year suspension for any of the following:
• Refusing to take a BAC test
• Negligently operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV)
• Committing any felony with your CMV
• Driving under the influence
• Driving a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration at 0.04% or higher
• Leaving the scene of an accident involving your CMV
• Driving a commercial vehicle while your CDL is suspended or revoked
You can also face suspensions for up to three years, if the offense committed occurs while operating a CMV carrying hazardous materials. If any felony was being committed involving controlled substances, you could lose your CDL for life.
Reinstating Your California CDL
You may be able to apply for a CDL reinstatement in California, though the associated fees differ depending upon your specific charges. A qualified California traffic ticket attorney can help you to navigate serious violations that have the potential to greatly impact your CDL and professional license.
The Cheap Traffic Attorneys Help Those Who Have Received a Traffic Ticket
Although you may feel inclined to try to handle the situation yourself, you may not find yourself ending up with the best outcome. If you have received a traffic ticket, it can have a big impact on your rights to drive professionally and to maintain your CDL. That is why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced traffic ticket attorney who understands the law, the consequences, and how to best minimize them on your behalf – as soon as possible.
At Cheap Traffic Attorneys, we are dedicated to defending California motorists and professional drivers against law officers and prosecutors who seek to carry out the toughest penalties. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.
Comments are closed.