Commercial lane violations on the Cuesta Grade occur more frequently during the winter months for commercial drivers.
Snow and ice frequently force the closure of I-5 through the Tejon Pass. When the Grapevine shuts down, US-101 becomes the primary alternate for north-south freight.
This coastal route is the main artery through San Luis Obispo County, CA, connecting the county to the LA and Long Beach ports and the Bay Area. Drivers also utilize SR-166 as an east-west connector and SR-1 for local access.
Navigating the Cuesta Grade on US-101
Many drivers prefer US-101 because it sits at a much lower elevation.
This route allows you to avoid the steep mountain passes of the Tejon Pass. While the Cuesta Grade has an incline, it is milder than the steep 5-mile-long, 6% grade on the Grapevine.
Using this alternate route helps drivers avoid dangerous winter weather conditions. It is less stressful on the brakes and essential when I-5 closes down.
However, taking US-101 adds significant mileage and travel time to your route.
The Risk of Commercial Lane Violations in SLO County
Commercial vehicles subject to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22406 are required to use designated lanes, and in the absence of a designated lane, the closest lane to the righthand curb and/or the second lane only to pass, according to VC Section 22348(c).
The Cuesta Grade features several curvy sections that require extreme focus.
Law enforcement in San Luis Obispo County, CA, strictly monitors commercial lane usage. Drivers often move out of the slow lane to maintain momentum for an incline.
A citation for a lane violation carries a fine of approximately $238. More importantly, it results in 1.5 NOTS points on your driving record.
The paid fine for a lane violation is reported to the FMCSA by the local DMV for all CDL holders. These become a part of the driver's PSP for three years and the carrier’s SMS percentile, which are used to determine fleet insurance premiums, for two years.
Protecting Your CDL and Career
Yes, paid fines and convictions for all moving violations are reported to the FMCSA. This data is used to calculate your carrier’s safety scores and your PSP.
Our law firm helps drivers fight these tickets to maintain a clean record.
- Our team looks for valid reasons for the use of “third lanes,” such as safety or collision avoidance.
- We represent you in court to seek a dismissal or a reduced no-point charge with a fine only.
We’ll examine your specific situation to design an individual defense based on the facts. Use of the further most left lane is allowed for authorized U-turns and left turns.
Contact Bigger & Harman About a Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation
If you have a ticket for a commercial lane violation that requires resolution in either Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo Courthouse, call for a free, no-obligation initial consultation at (661) 367-8232—se habla Español.
Bigger & Harman regularly defends clients in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Grover Beach Courthouses. Call today.
Use our secure, online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What is the penalty for a lane violation in SLO County?
A: The fine is roughly $238, plus 1.5 points on your DMV motor vehicle record. Paid fines for moving violations are reported to the FMCSA by the local DMV for all CDL holders. These become a part of the driver's PSP for three years and the carrier’s SMS percentile, which are used to determine fleet insurance premiums, for two years.
Q: Is US-101 a safe alternate when the Grapevine is closed to commercial traffic during winter weather incidents?
A: US-101 avoids the snow and ice found at higher elevations. However, be prepared for more curves and a longer overall trip duration.
Q: Can a CA traffic attorney help me dispute a ticket without me making a court appearance?
A: In most cases, Bigger & Harman does not require drivers to appear in court. You can keep those big wheels turning to keep earning.
References:
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.
CA VC Section 22348(c), Speed Laws.