Reliable Overweight Truck Lawyers Serving Stanislaus County
If you’ve been cited on I-5 or SR #99 for an overweight truck CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 35784, Permits and Agreements, you need to act quickly.
Ignoring the ticket or delaying payment could lead to a suspended or revoked license. Simply paying the fine without legal advice is risky—it’s essentially admitting guilt, which can have serious consequences.
At Bigger & Harman, APC, we’ve spent over a decade defending commercial drivers against traffic violations. We understand how the traffic court system works and are ready to fight for you.
What Are the Penalties for Overweight Trucks?
The fines for overweight trucks depend on several factors, including:
The number of axles
The distance between axles
The vehicle’s total weight
The maximum weight per axle set
The weight resting on one wheel.
If you’re cited for a weight violation, you may feel unsure about what to do next. Our team of experienced attorneys can guide you through the process and help protect your rights and your job.
Paying the fine might seem like the easiest solution, but it can lead to long-term issues, including points on your driving record and possible job loss.
Many drivers fail to consider that a truck overweight by more than 4,500 pounds is a misdemeanor crime in CA.
Imagine paying a fine of more than $4,500, going to county jail or being put on probation for doing your job. Most judges just want a reasonable excuse to find you not guilty, but must put money in the Stanislaus County treasury.
“A misdemeanor is a type of offense punishable under criminal law. A misdemeanor is typically a crime punishable by less than 12 months in jail.”—Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute (LII) WEX Definitions: Misdemeanor.
How to Avoid Overweight Truck Fines
Many commercial drivers don’t realize they can avoid overweight truck fines by checking their cargo frequently so that loads don’t shift and weigh your load before entering California.
Using private weigh stations before crossing state lines can help ensure compliance. If your truck is overweight, you have the opportunity to adjust the load before reaching an official weigh station.
Most carriers have their fleet management office check weight limits and get permits when required, but independent operators should contact the CALTRANS office.
Planning your route and stopping at these private stations can prevent costly citations and keep your record clean. It’s a small step that can save you thousands in fines and potential job risks.
Can I Fight an Overweight Truck Ticket?
Yes! There are many possible defenses against an overweight truck ticket.
Our experienced attorneys can discuss your options during a free initial consultation.
Every case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategies to your specific situation.
Why Hire a CA Traffic Ticket Attorney?
Commercial drivers depend on their clean records to keep working. A single overweight ticket can mean higher insurance costs or job loss.
Hiring a CA traffic ticket attorney gives you the best chance to reduce or dismiss the charges.
We’ve successfully defended drivers across Stanislaus, Kern, Sacramento, Nevada, Tulare, El Dorado, Placer, Fresno, Inyo, and Mono Counties. With flexible appointments and free consultations, we’re available when you need us.
Don’t risk your livelihood. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options.
Contact Bigger & Harman to Avoid Massive Fines for an Overweight Truck Possibly
Despite your persistent checks, you could still get a ticket for an overweight truck that you need resolved in Modesto Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Use our handy online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com for a free initial consultation.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
CA VC Section 35784, Permits and Agreements.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
Cornell Law School LII WEX Definitions: Misdemeanor.