A commercial vehicle lane violation may seem minor, but it can damage your career and reputation.
In Fresno County, CA, commercial drivers are often cited for not staying in the designated lane.
California traffic law requires specific lane use for commercial vehicles to keep traffic safe and efficient.
According to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22348 (c), Speed Laws:
“A vehicle subject to Section 22406 shall be driven in a lane designated pursuant to Section 21655, or if a lane has not been so designated, in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb.”
Drivers can briefly use the second lane to pass slower traffic. But using the third lane will normally get the driver a ticket.
Fresno County CDL Attorney: Understanding the Law
You might have had no choice when the alleged commercial vehicle lane violation occurred.
Emergencies like reckless drivers, sudden obstacles, or construction zones can force you into restricted lanes. Sometimes, safe navigation on multi-lane highways requires a left-lane move to make a legal U-turn.
These circumstances may serve as valid legal defenses.
A Fresno County CDL attorney understands local court practices and how to build a strong defense that speaks directly to the traffic court judge.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
What a Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation Could Cost You
A commercial vehicle lane violation usually carries a $238 fine and 1.5 NOTS points.
But it doesn’t stop there. The DMV reports these assessed points to the FMCSA, which affects your Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) score, your Pre-employment Screening Program record, and your employer’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) percentile.
Fleet insurance provider typically use the DOT FMCSA’s SMS percentile to determine fleet insurance premiums. Insurance premiums may rise. Your carrier’s SMS percentile could increase, putting their DOT compliance status at risk.
For commercial drivers, this can mean lost job offers, reduced pay, or even termination. Some carriers have zero-tolerance policies in place for moving violations.
Why You Should Work with a Fresno County CDL Attorney
You don’t have to face this alone.
One of Bigger & Harman’s Fresno County CDL attorneys could help reduce or dismiss the charge.
In some cases, depending on the circumstances, they can negotiate a fine with no points added—helping you protect your CDL and job security.
Don’t risk your career over one lane violation. Talk to a CDL traffic attorney who knows how to fight for you in court.
Contact Bigger & Harman About a Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation
If you’ve been ticketed for a commercial vehicle lane violation that you need to get resolved in Fresno County Courthouse, call us at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Use our handy contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
CA VC Section 22348 (c), Speed Laws.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.