It is always wise for a commercial vehicle driver to dispute a commercial vehicle lane violation ticket in the Stockton Courthouse in San Joaquin County, CA.
Many commercial drivers are ticketed for lane violations on the Five and just pay the fine. Some believe that it is the easiest and least expensive option.
However, for most commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, it is wise to dispute every traffic ticket for moving violations with the help of a traffic attorney.
Getting a commercial vehicle lane violation ticket in California can put your CDL and livelihood at risk.
If you're driving through Stockton, CA, especially on Interstate 5, you’ve likely seen commercial drivers pulled over by the CHP for this exact reason.
During consultations with commercial drivers, we talk with drivers who are concerned about these citations.
Although we cannot guarantee a dismissal, and you should be wary of any lawyer who does, we will do our best to obtain a favorable resolution of your ticket.
Frequently, when the State’s evidence is strong, we will attempt to negotiate a no-point conviction to ensure the FMCSA is notified of your moving violation.
What Mistakes Should CDL Drivers Avoid?
We often see the following common errors made by commercial drivers that can make things worse:
Ignoring the ticket – This can lead to a failure to appear (FTA) charge, which can be charge as a misdemeanor.
Handling it alone – CDL violations require experience and legal knowledge. The most frequent downfall of drivers who represent themselves is an admission of guilt or not knowing what mistake an officer just made right in front of them.
Pleading guilty – Paying the fine admits guilt and adds points to your record.
Missing evidence – Dashcam footage or witness statements could strengthen your defense.
Assuming there's no option – Many cases can be reduced or dismissed.
The Consequences of a Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation
The CHP takes lane violations seriously. A commercial vehicle lane violation may seem minor, but CDL drivers face higher scrutiny.
In fact, commercial vehicles, due mainly to their size, are often seen by law enforcement as the aggressor, even if the passenger vehicle was actually at fault.
It can result in the following:
CSA severity points and time-weight multiples
Higher fleet insurance premiums
Possible job loss for repeat offenses—often, a driver is terminated simply because they were the most recent offender who made the carrier’s fleet insurance rise.
Drivers often ask, "How serious is a commercial vehicle lane violation in Stockton, CA?"
Although it is one of the least serious moving violations, all moving violations can snowball. Any moving violation that makes it to your Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record affects your ability to negotiate pay and benefits.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
How We Help Commercial Drivers
Our team at Bigger & Harman, APC, focuses on defending CDL holders.
We understand the nuances of traffic laws and court procedures in San Joaquin County.
We regularly fight tickets in the Stockton Courthouse. We work to get your ticket dismissed or reduced to a no-point infraction. We help protect your record and your career.
Why Legal Help Could Be Crucial
Hiring a local CDL defense attorney who understands the courts around Stockton, CA, makes a difference. We know what to expect, how judges rule, and what evidence holds up.
When you ask, "Should I fight my commercial vehicle lane violation in Stockton, California?" The answer for most CDL holders is usually yes.
We will put our knowledge and experience to work for you to ensure the best possible outcome.
Understanding the California Traffic Code
Under CA law, trucks with three or more axles or those towing another vehicle must use designated lanes, the far right lane for travel, or the second lane for overtaking.
Use of the third lane is prohibited for vehicles identified in California Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406, Speed Laws.
Straying from those lanes, even briefly, could result in a commercial vehicle lane violation.
CA VC 22348(c) is clear, and enforcement is strict, especially on I-5 around Stockton. Local searches like "commercial vehicle lane violation attorney near me in Stockton, CA" are common.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
Consult One of Bigger & Harman’s Traffic Attorneys That Fight Tickets In San Joaquin County Commercial
We understand what you're up against as a CDL holder.
We’ve helped many commercial drivers facing lane violations on Interstate 5 in Stockton Courthouse in San Joaquin County, CA.
When you choose us, you’re getting attorneys who understand the law, the courts, and your driving profession.
Don’t risk your career, insurance rates, or job opportunities. Talk to our team first. Let us review your ticket.
Hire a San Joaquin County Commercial Vehicle Ticket Lawyer
We help commercial drivers who face the following charges:
We also help drivers avoid DOT FMCSA “serious offense” charges that can result in driver disqualifications for following too close, unsafe lane changes, illegal cell phone use, driving with no CDL, CPL, or endorsement in possession, and more. Call today.
Contact Bigger & Harman About Disputing a Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation
If you have been issued a commercial vehicle lane violation that requires resolution in Stockton Courthouse, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—se habla Español 349-9755.
Use our online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What is a commercial vehicle lane violation?
A: It’s when a commercial driver uses a lane not permitted under CA law. It often occurs on highways like I-5 near Stockton, CA, and other areas across California where specific lanes are designated for commercial vehicles.
Q: How does a commercial vehicle lane violation impact my CDL and commercial driving career?
A: NOTS points in California could lead to a suspension of driving privilege, which in-turn could hamper your ability to drive professionally. Convictions add CSA severity points that can hurt your employer’s safety score. Repeat offenses may lead to termination, and since they are recorded in your PSP, it could impact your ability to negotiate pay per mile and benefits.
Q: Should I fight a commercial vehicle lane violation ticket?
A: Yes. Even a minor infraction could negatively impact your driving record, reputation, and driving job. An attorney might be able to help get the ticket reduced or dismissed.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.
The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.31, Paragraph 6.2.7, Notification of Convictions for Driver Violations.
CA VC Section 22348(c), Speed Laws.