Understanding commercial vehicle speeding laws is crucial for any CDL holder driving through Woodland, CA.
On I-5, commercial drivers face a strict 55-mph statewide speed limit. Crossing that line—even unknowingly—can bring serious consequences.
The Chain Reaction of Commercial Vehicle Speeding Law Convictions
A speeding conviction in a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) sets off a chain of problems.
First, the DMV adds 1.5 NOTS points to the driver’s record. Then, the DOT FMCSA gets notified. This adds Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity points to both the driver and their carrier’s DOT number.
If a violation repeats—within six months—it’s time-weighted and multiplied by three. A third offense within a year is multiplied by two.
That means CSA points may be doubled or tripled. The result? A long-term stain on your carrier’s safety record and a scar on your Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for three years.
The Impact on Your Employer and the Carrier’s SMS Score
When you’re driving a CMV, your actions affect more than just you. Every speeding ticket reflects on your carrier’s DOT Safety Measurement System (SMS) score.
High SMS scores can raise fleet insurance costs. They also mean more inspections and red flags at roadside weigh stations, which can put your job in jeopardy.
Dispute Commercial Speeding Violations with Legal Help
When commercial drivers with speeding tickets call us from Woodland or elsewhere in Yolo County, they usually worry about court. Time is money.
Most commercial drivers can’t afford to miss work to fight a ticket. That’s why we recommend letting a CDL lawyer handle it.
We represent our clients in court. Although there are no guarantees, we can often get it reduced to a non-moving violation to eliminate points or get the ticket dismissed entirely.
That saves you time, stress, keeps you on the road, and keeps your CDL in good standing.
The Real Cost of Commercial Vehicle Speeding Fines in CA
Under California law, commercial speeding tickets range from $366 to $800. But the damage doesn’t stop there.
A conviction triggers insurance increases, CSA severity points and possible time-weight multiples, and employer scrutiny.
Many trucking companies follow a zero-tolerance policy. One ticket could cost you your job.
Why Commercial Vehicle Speeding Laws Are Stricter
California has some of the toughest commercial traffic laws in the country.
Driving 70 mph in a CMV—something legal in neighboring states—is a misdemeanor here.
Drivers coming into CA from Nevada, Oregon, or Arizona often miss the drop to 55 mph. That’s how many find themselves with a ticket they didn’t expect.
Don’t Risk It Alone: Hire a Local CDL Lawyer
At Bigger & Harman, we understand the pressures commercial drivers face.
We’ve helped many clients in Woodland in Yolo County dispute commercial speeding violations without missing work. Let us protect your record and your reputation.
If you’re dealing with a ticket, give us a call. Let’s keep your wheels turning and your CDL clean.
Ask Bigger & Harman About Commercial Vehicle Speeding Laws and Penalties in Woodland, CA
When you need assistance with commercial vehicle speeding laws or a CDL traffic ticket in Woodland Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300— Se habla Español 349-9755.
Use our contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
DOT FMCSA CFR Part 383.31, Notification of Convictions for Driver Violations.
CA VC Section 22406 & 22406.1, Other Speed Laws.
FMCSA CFR 49 Part 383.51, Driver Disqualifications.