Receiving a ticket for a commercial lane violation can threaten your driving career. We know how hard you work on I-15 in San Bernardino County. Our team understands the stress of a sudden California Highway Patrol stop.

We see these cases regularly at the Victorville Courthouse. Drivers often feel frustrated when they are forced into the left lanes. We are here to listen and help you stay on the road.

Understanding a Commercial Lane Violation

The California Vehicle Code (VC) Section 22348 (c) is very specific. 

Trucks and buses must stay in the two right-hand lanes. You cannot use any lane beyond the second lane on wide highways.

This rule is often called a "third lane violation" by local drivers, but it is a commercial lane violation. You may use the second lane only to pass other vehicles. You must return to the right lane immediately after passing.

A commercial lane violation on the I-15 can happen quickly. Officers watch for these violations. However, there are legal reasons for some violations. Keeping your rig in the correct lane protects your livelihood.

The True Cost of Your Citation

The fine for this ticket is around $238 in San Bernardino County. However, the financial impact goes far beyond the initial court cost. The DMV assesses 1.5 Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points.

Points on your record can lead to higher fleet insurance rates for your carrier, which could jeopardize your driving position. Many carriers have a zero-tolerance policy for moving violations. 

The FMCSA also receives notice of every moving violation conviction. They add Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) points to Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) record for up to three years. 

Defenses Your Traffic Violation Attorney Can Use

There are valid reasons to move into the left lanes. You might need to move over for an emergency vehicle or an animal in your lane. A road closure or accident may force a lane change.

We look at the specific facts of your Victorville case.

• Did you need to make a left turn or U-turn?
• Was there a hazard in the right lanes?
• Did another driver cut you off suddenly?

A traffic violation attorney can present a personalized defense to the judge based on the facts. A CDL traffic attorney’s job is to raise the level of “reasonable doubt” so that the traffic court judge will have no choice but to offer a no-point alternative or a dismissal of charges.

We aim to get your charges reduced or dismissed to prevent NOTS points from hitting your driving record.

Why You Need Professional Representation

Challenging a ticket alone takes a lot of your time. As a professional driver, you cannot afford to miss work for court. Our commercial vehicle speeding ticket attorneys handle everything for you.

We know the local procedures at the Victorville Courthouse. We represent your interests while you keep pulling your loads. Our experience helps us navigate the complexities of traffic court.

Do not simply pay the fine and admit guilt. Talking to us first gives you a chance to fight. We want to help you keep your career moving forward.

Impact on Your PSP and Future Jobs

Your PSP record is vital for your future. The DOT FMCSA mandates every carrier to check these records before they hire you. A commercial lane violation can make you look like a risk.

We work hard to protect your safety score and reputation. A clean record helps you negotiate for better pay. We treat your CDL with the respect it deserves.

We have helped hundreds of commercial drivers across San Bernardino County and California. Our firm brings over a decade of experience to your side. We are familiar with the officers patrolling I-15 near Victorville.

Khaoe Smith—Google Reviews, “Got my 3rd lane trucking violation reduced to no-point, non-moving violation with just a fine to pay. Very responsive and will keep you informed on your case. Thanks guys!!”

Contact Bigger & Harman About a Commercial Vehicle Lane Violation on I-15

Bigger & Harman regularly defends clients in Victorville Courthouse in San Bernardino, CA. Call for a free, no-obligation consultation about a commercial vehicle lane violation at (661) 349-9300—Marque 859-1177, para Español.  

Consult with us before you pay a traffic fine. Admitting guilt leads to points and negative marks on your PSP. We can help you avoid unnecessary traffic court appearances.

Use our handy automated 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 a commercial lane violation?

A: This violation occurs when a truck uses a restricted left lane. These lanes are off-limits for commercial vehicles subject to Vehicle Code §22406 in California. We help drivers challenge these tickets in the Victorville Courthouse.

Q: How much is a commercial lane violation in Victorville, CA?

A: The fine for this ticket is around $238 in San Bernardino County, CA. However, the financial impact goes far beyond the initial court cost. The CA DMV will assess 1.5 NOTS points and report the conviction to the FMCSA, which will add CSA severity points and time-weights to your carrier’s SMS percentile. This paid fine will become a part of your PSP for three years. 

Q: Will I have to turn down a load to dispute a commercial lane violation in the Victorville Courthouse?

A: Bigger & Harman typically does not require a driver to attend court unless there is a compelling reason. We know you must keep those big wheels turning to keep earning. Contact us today.

References:

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.