When facing a moving violation in a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), it’s critical to call a CDL traffic attorney right away.
For commercial drivers in Santa Maria, CA, a single ticket can put your career and income at risk. Our law firm understands what is on the line and why experienced representation matters.
In this blog post, we discuss the to five reasons commercial drivers should call us to discover their options after being accused of a moving violation in a CMV.
#1 — No Missed Cargo Loads to Attend Court
We know time off the road means lost income. When those 18 wheels aren’t turning, you aren’t earning.
A CDL attorney can appear in court on your behalf.
This keeps you hauling loads instead of sitting in a courtroom—for commercial drivers issued a traffic violation on Highway 101 in Santa Barbara County, self-representation could mean lost miles and lost income.
#2 — Protecting Your CDL from Career-Damaging Points
A conviction adds NOTS points to your CA DMV driving record, and when the DMV notifies the FMCSA, it will impact Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity scores and employer safety profiles on the Safety Measurement System (SMS) for two years.
The record of conviction, paid fine, and the subsequent CSA severity points will remain on the driver's Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for up to three years.
Even a single violation can ripple through your career. The FMCSA mandates trucking firms to consider the PSP records of all drivers before hiring.
#3 — Skilled Negotiation for Reduced Penalties
Courts often impose high fines for CDL violations. An attorney can work toward dismissals, no-point outcomes, and reduced or alternate charges.
Sometimes misdemeanors may be lowered to infractions when requested by a knowledgeable and experienced CDL traffic attorney—that could make a huge difference for your record, reputation, and driving career.
That’s why it’s crucial to call a CDL traffic attorney who understands how to negotiate effectively.
#4 — Knowledge of Local Courts and Procedures
Every court has unique procedures, and local insight matters.
Our team regularly works in Santa Maria’s Miller Division traffic court.
We know how to challenge errors, officer absences, or weak evidence—that knowledge and experience give us an advantage in defending CDL drivers.
#5 — Less Stress and More Peace of Mind
Legal paperwork and court procedures can overwhelm any driver. We’ll submit the necessary court documents to the Santa Barbara County Clerk so that you can concentrate on driving.
A CDL attorney removes stress and keeps you focused on the road ahead.
We guide our clients through each step with regular updates—that peace of mind means you can keep driving without distraction.
Why CDL Drivers in Santa Maria Should Call a CDL Traffic Attorney
For commercial drivers, a traffic ticket for a moving violation is never minor. It can impact your driving record, insurance, and even your job.
Self-representation often leads to harsher penalties. A CDL traffic attorney can create a personalized defense strategy for court that focuses on dismissal first and then a no-point alternate with a fine only.
We’ve helped many CDL drivers in the Santa Maria Courthouse in Santa Barbara County.
Whether you were ticketed on Highway 101, 154, or another local route, we understand the challenges.
Call a CDL Traffic Attorney, Consult Bigger & Harman for a Commercial Driving Ticket
If you’ve been cited for a moving violation, call a CDL traffic attorney—call Bigger & Harman, APC at (661) 349-9300 or 349-9755 (se habla Español) for a free initial consultation today.
You can also email us at mailto:attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our website contact form.
Bigger & Harman regularly defends clients in Santa Maria (Miller Division) Courthouse. Call for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. We assisted more than 20,000 California drivers resolve traffic tickets, hundreds of whom are commercial drivers.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: Why should I call a CDL traffic attorney after a ticket?
A: A CDL traffic attorney can protect your CDL from CA DMV NOTS points, FMCSA severity points on your PSP, massive fines, and, perhaps most importantly, the stress of missing a load to attend court.
Q: Can a CDL traffic attorney appear in court for me?
A: Yes. Bigger & Harman will appear in court for you, work to avoid points on your record, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Q: What types of violations can CDL attorneys handle?
A: Speeding, unsafe or improper lane changes, lane violations, following too close (tailgating), overweight trucks, illegal cell phone use, reckless driving, and more.
References:
The DMV Portal: CA Commercial Driver’s Handbook.pdf.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.