The answer to the question, should I hire a CDL traffic attorney for a commercial speeding ticket is almost always yes.
Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders do not have the option to attend Traffic Violator School (TVS) to keep a moving violation in a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) confidential from their employer or insurance provider.
In fact, CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 42005, Driving Offenses, prohibits a commercial driver “who is convicted of a traffic offense to attend a traffic violator school” if driving a vehicle that requires a commercial license to legally operate.
Furthermore, CA VC Section 12810.5, Issuance and Renewal of Licenses, requires that a commercial driver be assessed 50% more negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points than a non-commercial driver if driving a vehicle that requires a commercial license.
Therefore, a CDL holder is typically boxed into a decision to challenge a commercial speeding ticket with the assistance of a CDL traffic attorney.
What Happens If You Get a Commercial Speeding Ticket?
A speeding ticket in a CMV isn’t just about the fine.
A paid fine or conviction can affect your job and future opportunities. Here’s what you’re facing:
Possible fines of up to $550
1.5 to 3 NOTS points on your record
Higher fleet insurance costs, which can financially cripple an independent operator
Potential job loss
As stated earlier, CDL holders can’t take TVS to mask points.
Those points go straight to your DMV record and are reported to the DOT FMCSA.
Carriers check PSP records before hiring, and too many violations can make finding work difficult and negotiating better pay and benefits nearly impossible.
Should I Hire a CDL Traffic Attorney for a Commercial Speeding Ticket?
Nobody knows the answer to that question better than you.
Fighting a ticket on your own can be tough. You may not have the time or knowledge to challenge it effectively.
An experienced attorney knows the best defenses and how to get tickets reduced or dismissed.
A knowledgeable and experienced traffic attorney can:
Review the officer’s radar or LIDAR calibration records
Challenge the pacing method used
Question whether the speed limit was properly posted
Negotiate for a reduced charge with no points
Without a solid legal defense, a single speeding ticket can snowball into job loss and financial hardship.
Why Hire a CDL Traffic Attorney in Woodland, CA?
If you got a ticket in Yolo County, you’ll need to fight it in Woodland Traffic Court.
A local attorney understands the court’s procedures and judges’ tendencies. That experience can make a difference in your case.
Plus, you don’t have to appear in court. Your attorney can handle everything while you keep driving and earning money.
Why Choose a CDL Traffic Attorney for Your Ticket?
Your CDL is your livelihood.
A single mistake shouldn’t put your career at risk. Hiring a traffic attorney gives you the best chance to protect your record and future job opportunities.
At Bigger & Harman, APC, we have over a decade of experience defending California drivers.
We know how important your job is, and we fight aggressively to keep your record clean.
Need help? Contact us for a free case review. The sooner you act, the better your chances of beating the ticket.
Ask Bigger & Harman: Should I Hire a CDL Traffic Attorney for a Commercial Speeding Ticket in Woodland, CA
To discover your options and be better informed of the answer to the question, should I hire a CDL traffic attorney for a commercial speeding ticket in Woodland Courthouse in Yolo County, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Use our convenient contact form or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com. We’re here to help with legal services.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.
CA VC Sections 12810.5, Issuance and Renewal of Licenses, 22406 & 22406.1, Speed Laws, and 42005, Driving Offenses.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.Call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300, to ask should I hire a CDL traffic attorney for a commercial speeding ticket in Woodland, CA. Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.