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undefinedThe first thing every big rig driver needs to consider is that the larger vehicle will catch the RADAR or LIDAR signal quicker than a vehicle with a smaller footprint.

Therefore, commercial drivers are more apt to receive a commercial vehicle speeding ticket than their noncommercial driving peers in a Honda. 

So, many times, the commercial driver is going 65 mph, which is speeding in California, but the Honda speeds past at 85 or 90 mph without a ticket. 

Speed Measurement Devices 

In California, speeding tickets can be issued based on technology like RADAR and LIDAR. 

Law enforcement officers (LEOs) use these tools to catch drivers exceeding the speed limit. But how do they work, and can they be challenged? This blog explains these devices and why commercial drivers must stay informed.

Understanding California’s Commercial Vehicle Speed Law

The California Basic Speed Law CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22350, Speed Laws, states no one should drive faster than is reasonable and prudent, given the conditions. This applies even to commercial vehicle speeding. 

Despite CA (VC) Section 22406, Speed Laws, limiting most large commercial vehicles to 55 mph statewide, road conditions could make that speed hazardous and illegal.

No person may drive any of the following vehicles on a highway at a speed in excess of 55 miles per hour:

(a) A motortruck or truck tractor having three or more axles or any motortruck or truck tractor drawing any other vehicle.

(b) A passenger vehicle or bus drawing any other vehicle.

(c) A school bus transporting any school pupil.

(d) A farm labor vehicle when transporting passengers.

(e) A vehicle transporting explosives.

(f) A trailer bus, as defined in Section 636.”

In Roseville, CA, commercial drivers of motor trucks, buses, and trucks towing trailers must follow this traffic code or risk being ticketed for commercial vehicle speeding. 

Exceeding this limit can result in a citation, even if the conditions seem safe to the driver.

How RADAR Detects Speed to Enforce Commercial Vehicle Speeding Laws

RADAR, or Radio Detection and Ranging, measures speed by bouncing radio waves off a moving vehicle. 

When the waves return to the RADAR device, the Doppler effect calculates the vehicle’s speed.

While effective, RADAR devices can produce errors if they aren’t calibrated properly. Misuse by untrained officers can also lead to inaccurate readings.

LIDAR: A More Precise Method but Not Perfect

LIDAR uses laser light pulses to detect speed, similar to RADAR but more precise. The device measures the time it takes for light to reflect off a vehicle and calculates its speed.

However, LIDAR's accuracy decreases in bad weather or over long distances. Errors in officer training or devices out of calibration could cause errors, as well.

Moreover, it is more likely to pick up a vehicle with a larger silhouette. 

Pacing and Estimation

Officers can also use pacing to determine speed. 

This speed measurement method involves following the suspect’s vehicle and comparing speeds. 

In Roseville, CA, officers on I-80 may rely on speed estimation in poor weather or construction zones or just if they prefer to pace. 

A traffic attorney can challenge these methods and attempt to raise reasonable doubt in court.

Why You Need a Traffic Attorney

If you’re a commercial driver with a speeding ticket, missing work to challenge the ticket can cost you a load of cargo. Commercial drivers are typically paid by the mile. If your wheels aren’t turning, you aren’t earning! 

Let us handle your commercial vehicle speeding case so that you can stay on the road 

Challenge a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Ticket in Roseville Courthouse with Bigger & Harman

Contact Bigger & Harman for a no-cost initial consultation about a commercial vehicle speeding ticket you need to be resolved in Roseville Courthouse in Placer County, CA, at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.

Please email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com, or use our convenient online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation. 

Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License

References:

CVC Sections 2235022406, & 22406.1Speed Laws.

The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5Disqualification of Drivers.

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.

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