Have you been cited for following too close (tailgating) in Woodland, CA? 

We know how frustrating that is. You're hauling a full load, keeping pace with traffic, and suddenly, you're pulled over and handed a ticket. 

You're thinking: What just happened?

If you're a CDL holder, a following too close (tailgating) citation is more than just a nuisance. It’s a DOT FMCSA “serious offense.” 

That means if it happens again within three years, you could face a 60-day driver disqualification. That’s two months of lost income.

Let’s break down what this means and how to challenge it in court.

Why Brake Checking Puts Commercial Drivers at Risk

You’ve probably experienced it—somebody cuts in front of you and slams on the brakes. It’s called a brake check.

“Brake checking is a dangerous driving behavior that can lead to serious accidents and fatalities. It involves drivers slamming on their brakes with the intention of causing the unsuspecting driver behind them to take evasive action. This type of aggressive driving is illegal in many states and carries serious risks for those who engage in it.”—National Traffic Safety Institute.

In a commercial vehicle, you’re moving 40 tons at highway speeds. You can’t stop on a dime. When someone brake checks a semi, the results can be deadly—for them and for you.

Brake checking often stems from road rage, insurance fraud, or a false belief that they’re being blocked by a vehicle going too slow. Many don’t know that commercial vehicles are restricted to 55 mph in CA.

But they often walk away, pointing fingers at the trucker if they get hit. Some risk life & limb to get a big payout from a civil suit against a big trucking firm. 

What Happens After a Following Too Close (Tailgating) Ticket?

Getting cited for following too close (tailgating) may feel unfair, especially if you were brake-checked. But the FMCSA doesn’t see it that way if you paid the fine, you’re guilty.

A single conviction adds points to your CDL. It gets reported to the DMV, FMCSA, and your Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) file. That report follows you for up to three years.

A second offense within three years? You’re looking at a minimum 60-day driver’s disqualification of your commercial driving privileges. A third could result in 120 days off the road. Eventually, you’ll be banned for life.

Your employer may see you as a risk. Future job offers might dry up. Your pay and route assignments could take a hit.

Why You Need a Traffic Attorney for Commercial Drivers in Woodland, CA

Let’s be real—you don’t have time to sit in court. You’ve got deliveries to make, miles to run, and bills to pay. If those 18 wheels are turning, you aren’t earning.

This is where a traffic attorney for commercial drivers can help.

Here’s what a local attorney familiar with Woodland Courthouse can do for you:

• Go to court so you don’t have to.

• Push for a dismissal if you were brake-checked or other conditions warrant it.

• Work to reduce the charge to a no-point infraction when the State has a strong case.

• Keep your CSA score clean and your PSP report free of violations.

• Raise reasonable doubt that may lead to a favorable outcome.

You don’t want this ticket messing with your CDL, your record, your reputation, or your income.

Talk to a Traffic Attorney for Commercial Drivers Before You Pay That Ticket

Before you pay that fine, pause and talk to a traffic attorney for commercial drivers who knows the court system in Yolo County. They’ll explain your options and help protect your CDL.

The right attorney can often resolve the issue without you making a court appearance. 

They may get your charge reduced—or even dismissed. That means no points, no FMCSA notice, and no headache for you.

If you’ve been ticketed for following too close (tailgating) in Woodland, CA, let’s talk. You’ve worked hard to get and keep your CDL. We’ll help you keep it clean. 

Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.

Ask Bigger & Harman How to Challenge That Following Too Close Ticket in Woodland, CA 

When facing a following too close ticket in Woodland Courthouse in Yolo County, CA, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755. We can also help with Punjab. 

Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com, or use our contact form to setup an initial consultation. It’s easy and free. 

Flexible Appointment Options: We offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your schedule. Mostly, for your convenience, we will handle your concerns by phone or email.

References:

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

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.

CA Vehicle Code Section 21703, Additional Driving Rules.