Disputing a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge is a criminal offense if convicted of driving more than 15 mph over the statewide 55 mph speed limit for commercial drivers.
A conviction could cost you your job, your license, your reputation, and your future.
Penalties for Speeding 15+ MPH in a CMV
When cited under CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406.1 for driving 15+ mph over the 55 mph limit, you're facing a misdemeanor.
The following consequences are possible:
Up to a $1,000 base fine (total fines may exceed $3,000 with fees)
Possible jail time of up to 180 days or probation for two years
1.5 NOTS points for 3 years
A “serious offense” flag on your FMCSA PSP record
It doesn’t matter if you were just trying to stay on schedule. The consequences can be severe.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
Know the Difference: Infraction vs. Misdemeanor
This is not just a ticket.
It's a criminal charge. Cornell Law School defines a misdemeanor as a criminal offense punishable by jail. If convicted, this goes on your record.
"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).
Why Hiring a CDL Speeding Lawyer Is Critical
Disputing a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge alone can be risky. With your CDL and career on the line, it’s not worth the gamble.
Hiring one of our Santa Barbara County speeding ticket lawyers could mean:
Negotiating to reduce the charge to an infraction
Seek to beat the points
Lessen the speed
Protect your CDL and driving position
What Triggers a Misdemeanor Charge for Speeding?
Under CA VC Section 22406, Speed Laws, most CMVs must not exceed 55 mph statewide. Exceeding that by 15 mph or more can trigger a misdemeanor per VC Section 22406.1.
Commercial drivers must be especially careful on long stretches like US 101 or Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) or Highway 166, where CHP often enforces these rules strictly.
FMCSA & DOT Consequences
Disputing a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge isn’t just about the court and the CA DMV. The FMCSA considers “excessive speeding” or 15 mph over the speed limit a “serious offense,” and a second conviction means a driver’s disqualification.
The DOT will add this to your PSP report:
Ten CSA severity points (doubled or tripled with time-weight multiples)
“Serious offense” designation for 3 years
Higher SMS percentile for your carrier
Threat of disqualification: 60 days for a second conviction and 120 days for a third.
Most carriers won’t tolerate repeat offenders. Don’t let one ticket cost you your future.
Protecting Your Record in Santa Barbara County
CHP officers are active near truck stops and exits off the PCH. Some unmarked or stealth patrol vehicles have been spotted there. If you're cited, contact us. We regularly appear in Santa Barbara County Courthouse.
Fighting a criminal speeding ticket requires local insight and legal experience.
Consult One of Bigger & Harman’s Santa Barbara County CDL Speeding Ticket Lawyers
Don’t let a criminal charge threaten your career.
Our Santa Barbara County CDL speeding attorney fights for commercial drivers. We understand the local courts, judges, and procedures.
Let us work to reduce or dismiss your misdemeanor ticket and protect your driving record.
Reach out to Bigger & Harman today. Let’s keep your CDL clean and your career on track.
Ask Bigger & Harman for Help Disputing a Misdemeanor Commercial Vehicle Speeding Charge
Disputing a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge in Santa Barbara County Courthouse could be cheaper than you think with one of Bigger & Harman’s speeding ticket attorneys.
Call us at (661) 349-9300— Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Also, you could use our convenient contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: How can Bigger & Harman help with disputing a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge?
A: Bigger & Harman, a traffic ticket law firm focused on CDL traffic tickets, can help dispute a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge in California by providing legal representation, examining and possibly disputing speed measurement device data, analyzing the case, negotiating with the court, and potentially securing a reduced charge or dismissal.
Q: Can I handle disputing a misdemeanor commercial vehicle speeding charge on my own?
A: Yes, but many Superior Court judges will not allow a defendant to self-represent a misdemeanor charge because it’s very risky. This is a serious charge that could result in a criminal record. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney improves your chances of a favorable outcome.
Q: Is speeding alone a misdemeanor charge or must there be road rage or reckless intent?
A: Although those could also be charged as misdemeanors, speeding more than 15 mph over the statewide 55-mph speed limit is the only misdemeanor charge for speeding in CA, according to CA VC 22406.1.
References:
CA VC Sections 22406 & 22406.1, Speed Laws.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.