A commercial vehicle lane violation can seriously affect CDL holders in Roseville Placer County and just about anywhere.
Under CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22348(c), commercial vehicles must stay in the right lane unless passing. Even then, they may only use the second lane from the right.
Commercial vehicles (all of those identified in CA VC Section 22406) cannot use the third lane or beyond on California freeways with three or more lanes.
The only exceptions are for left turns or legal U-turns. Violating this law can result in fines, DMV negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points, DOT FMCSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) severity points, and employer notifications.
However, it’s crucial for commercial drivers to remember that all convictions for moving violations (in a CMV or private vehicle) must be reported to their employer within 30 days.
Understanding the Penalties
A commercial vehicle lane violation fine is typically $238.
However, the consequences go beyond the fine. The DMV will assess 1.5 NOTS points for a paid fine or conviction.
These points trigger a notification to the DOT FMCSA and the driver’s employer through the Employer Pull Notice (EPN) Program. The notification applies to all CDL holders, regardless of where the violation occurred.
CDL holders must also report any moving violation conviction to their employer in writing. This includes violations in both commercial and personal vehicles.
Long-Term Consequences for CDL Holders
A commercial vehicle lane violation affects more than just a driver’s record and wallet.
The FMCSA assigns CSA severity points, which remain on a driver’s Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for three years.
Each moving violation conviction also impacts the carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) percentile. Insurance providers use this data to calculate risk and set fleet insurance premiums.
Too many violations can lead to increased insurance costs for carriers, which could trigger sanctions from the carrier or even termination from your driving position.
For CDL holders, a clean driving record is critical. Pay-per-mile salary rates and benefits often depend on maintaining a good record. Multiple violations can reduce earning potential and job opportunities.
Why You Need a CA Traffic Attorney
Fighting a commercial vehicle lane violation requires time, effort, and legal knowledge. Many CDL drivers, especially those driving for a fleet, cannot afford to turn down a cargo load to attend court.
We handle everything for you so that you can stay on the road.
Although there are no guarantees, our experienced Placer County traffic attorneys work to reduce or dismiss charges, protect your record, and minimize the impact on your career.
Contact us today to discuss your case.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Your Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation in Roseville, CA
If you receive a ticket for a commercial vehicle lane violation that needs to be resolved in Roseville Courthouse in Placer County, CA, call Bigger & Harman for an initial consultation at (661) 349-9300 or 349-9755—Se habla Español.
Email: attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com, or use our convenient online contact form.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
The CA DMV Employer Pull Notice (EPN) Program.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
The DOT FMCSA Page, About Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA).