If you get a commercial vehicle speeding ticket in Woodland, CA, you may think paying the fine is easier than fighting it. It’s true. It is easier. 

But that decision can have long-term consequences far beyond the fine. The fine paid is a guilty plea to a moving violation, which means the DMV will assess points on your record, notify the DOT FMCSA, and it could impact your job.

California Speeding Laws for Commercial Vehicles

California has strict speed limits for commercial vehicles. 

While most cars can go up to 70 mph, commercial vehicles must follow a 55 mph limit statewide. That speed limit differential falls under the CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406, Speed Laws.

Many out-of-state drivers and even some novice CA commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders don’t realize this, especially when heading to the Bay Area on I-80. 

Unfortunately, a commercial vehicle speeding ticket doesn’t just mean a fine. It can put your CDL and driving career at risk.

The Consequences of a Commercial Vehicle Speeding Ticket

A speeding ticket for a commercial vehicle in Woodland, CA typically costs between $550 and $800. But the bigger issue is the DMV and DOT FMCSA penalties.

California DMV assesses 1.5 Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points for commercial speeding violations. 

This is 50% more than what non-commercial drivers receive. Accumulating too many points can lead to a CDL suspension:

• 4 points in one year

• 6 points in two years

• 8 points in three years

The DMV does allow exceptions for commercial drivers based on miles driven in a CMV. But you must request a DMV NOTS hearing if the majority of your NOTS points where gained while driving a CMV.

Why NOTS Points Matter for CDL Holders

Every moving violation goes on your CDL record and gets reported to the DOT FMCSA. 

The FMCSA then applies Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) severity points. These stay on the driver’s Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for three years.

Fleet insurance providers also check the carrier’s record when setting premiums. Every driver using the carrier’s DOT number affects their Safety Measurement System (SMS) percentile. 

Too many violations can increase fleet insurance costs for your employer and make you a higher risk to retain.

Hire a Traffic Attorney to Protect Your CDL

A driver disqualification or suspension over a speeding ticket isn’t an option. That’s why hiring a traffic attorney is crucial.

A local traffic attorney can represent you in Woodland Courthouse, so you don’t have to turn down cargo or take time off from work. 

They can challenge the ticket, negotiate for a reduced charge, or get it dismissed. This can help protect your CDL, prevent points on your record, and keep you on the road.

If you’re dealing with a commercial vehicle speeding ticket, don’t risk your career. Hire a traffic attorney today to fight the charge and keep your driving record clean.

Ask Bigger & Harman About Your Commercial Vehicle Speeding Ticket in Woodland, CA 

If you’re facing a commercial vehicle speeding ticket that you need resolved in Woodland Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300—349-9755, se habla Español.

Use our easy to use online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.

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 22406 & 22406.1, Speed Laws.

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.