Getting a commercial vehicle misdemeanor speeding ticket on the I-15 near Victorville can put your CDL and career at risk.
If you're a truck driver navigating this busy corridor, you need to know what you're up against and how to protect yourself.
What Every Commercial Driver Needs to Know
If you were pulled over for speeding in a commercial vehicle, here’s what you should understand:
You have the “right to remain silent—use it.
This section of the CA traffic code applies only to commercial vehicles listed in CA Vehicle Code (VC) 22406.
Your ticket should have the “M” circled and cite CA VC 22406.1, but missing details or errors won’t get it dismissed.
A conviction means a misdemeanor on your record.
It only applies if you exceed the limit by 15 mph or more.
DOT FMCSA considers it a "serious offense." Two convictions within three years will result in a 60-day disqualification. Further convictions mean longer driver disqualifications.
Fines start at $1,000 but increase with surcharges and penalties.
Tank trucks hauling hazardous materials create a higher level of penalties.
Commercial drivers of tankers or those hauling explosives/hazardous materials are subject to harsher penalties according to CA VC Section 22406.5, Speed Laws:
If you drive a tank truck carrying over 500 gallons of flammable liquid, penalties are even harsher.
The first offense comes with at least a $500 fine, plus surcharges and assessments.
A second violation within two years brings a $2,000 fine and a six-month suspension from transporting hazardous materials. Likewise, there could be additional penalties and surcharges.
Which Vehicles Must Follow the Statewide 55-MPH Limit
California law limits certain commercial vehicles to 55 mph statewide. Here’s who must follow it:
Buses or passenger vehicles towing a trailer.
School buses transporting students.
Trucks with three or more axles or any truck pulling another vehicle.
Vehicles transporting explosives or hazardous materials, regardless of size or number of axles.
Farm labor vehicles carrying passengers.
Trailer buses.
If you were ticketed, don’t assume you automatically face a misdemeanor charge.
Not all commercial vehicles fall under this rule. Before making statements to law enforcement or court officials, consult a traffic attorney.
What Makes It a Misdemeanor?
A speeding infraction becomes a commercial vehicle misdemeanor speeding ticket if you exceed 14 mph over the statewide 55 limit required for commercial vehicles in CA VC 22406.
“(a) A person who operates a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 15210, upon a highway at a speed exceeding a posted speed limit established under this code by 15 miles per hour or more, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
However, some officers will only write it as an infraction using their discretion. If driving a private car with a commercial license, there can also be a conviction for a serious violation when:
(b) A person who holds a commercial driver’s license, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 15210, and operates a non-commercial motor vehicle upon a highway at a speed exceeding a posted speed limit established under this code by 15 miles per hour or more, is guilty of an infraction.
However, the driver convicted in either a CMV or their personal vehicle must notify their employer in writing within 30 days.
While some California judges hesitate to punish truckers for simply doing their jobs, that doesn’t mean you should risk going it alone. Consult an attorney before deciding to represent yourself.
A traffic attorney may be able to negotiate the commercial vehicle misdemeanor speeding charge down to an infraction, saving your driving record and CDL.
Protect Yourself at a Roadside Stop
If an officer pulls you over, don’t argue. Anything you say can be used against you.
Sign the ticket and call an attorney. Bodycam footage could be presented in court, so staying calm and exercising your right to remain silent is your best move.
Local Areas Where Law Enforcement Sets Up Speed Monitoring Around Victorville and Barstow, CA
If you drive I-15 regularly, you know law enforcement watches truck speeds around Victorville and Barstow.
Common truck stops monitored include the Flying J Travel Center in Barstow and the Costco in Victorville, where many truckers refuel.
Officers often monitor speed before commercial drivers coming into these stops have a chance to slow down. Knowing these high-enforcement areas can help you stay cautious and avoid unnecessary tickets.
San Bernardino County Traffic Ticket Defender: Why You Need an Attorney
A San Bernardino County Traffic Ticket Defender with trial experience can fight your commercial vehicle misdemeanor speeding ticket in Victorville Courthouse.
A knowledgeable and experienced attorney could negotiate a reduced charge, prevent a misdemeanor conviction, and protect your record and CDL.
Don’t risk your career—get legal help today.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
Consult Bigger & Harman Immediately About a Commercial Vehicle Misdemeanor Speeding Ticket
If you’ve been issued a commercial vehicle misdemeanor speeding ticket that requires resolution in Victorville Courthouse in San Bernardino County, CA, call us at (661) 349-9300— Se habla Español 349-9755.
Utilize our convenient online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
Cornell Law School LII WEX Definitions: Misdemeanor.