Commercial drivers need to remember that following too close in a CMV (commercial motor vehicle) is a serious offense at the DOT FMCSA. 

A paid fine for following too close or tailgating in a CMV can threaten a commercial driver’s career. We defend many of these tickets at the Roseville Courthouse in Placer County. Many citations come from Interstate 80 (I-80).

Interstate 80 is a primary route for truckers headed to the Bay Area to deliver cargo. It is a major feeder for tailgating tickets in the local area. Our firm understands the stress a traffic ticket can cause a commercial driver.

Our focus is on protecting your livelihood and your professional record. A clean driving record is essential for a commercial driver. We work hard to resolve your case with possible positive results.

Risks of Following Too Close in a CMV

This violation for following too close in a CMV is a minor infraction in California with 1.5 Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also tracks it as a “serious offense.”

A driver must notify their employer of any conviction of a moving violation within 30 days. Federal rules are very strict regarding moving violations for professional drivers.

Plus, the CA DMV Employer Pull Notice (EPN) Program keeps companies updated annually on the anniversary of enrollment. Your employer will likely see any traffic violation.

The Pre-employment Screening Program (PSP) mandates that every carrier consider a driver’s PSP before hiring them. Marks on your PSP can hurt your future job opportunities and limit your ability to negotiate pay and benefits. We aim to keep your professional record as clean as possible.

Career Impact and Driver Notification Programs

We see many cases of following too close in a CMV, often on Interstate 80. 

Companies receive annual updates about your driving history in Roseville. Tailgating convictions often lead to higher costs for trucking fleets. Carriers might decide to terminate drivers with multiple points.

Paying the fine is the same as admitting guilt. This choice can lead to a driver’s license suspension in California and an FMCSA driver disqualification for repeated serious offenses. 

A second paid fine or conviction will result in a 60-day minimum disqualification by the FMCSA; subsequent convictions extend the disqualification period, and multiple convictions will lead to a lifetime ban. 

Working With a Traffic Violation Attorney

Our traffic violation attorney team knows the Roseville court system. Experience matters when you are fighting for your career. We review every detail to find possible technical errors.

Traffic court procedures in Placer County move very quickly. We are familiar with the local judges and their requirements.

We can appear in traffic court for you. Our legal representatives allows you to keep driving while we manage the case. You avoid missing valuable days of pay on the road.

Tips to Avoid Tailgating Citations in Roseville

The following measure could help you avoid a possible ticket for tailgating:

• Maintain a safe gap between you and other cars.
• Increase your distance during heavy rain or fog on I-80.
• Stay alert for sudden traffic stops near Roseville exits.
• Check your mirrors to manage the space around your truck.
• Watch for erratic behavior and “brake-checking” by other vehicles and avoid them when possible. 

Training new drivers on California laws is also very important. Safe driving habits help you avoid the Roseville Courthouse entirely. We want you to stay safe and stay employed.

Consequences of Ignoring a Citation

Ignoring a citation in Placer County is a major mistake. You could face a misdemeanor charge for Failure to Appear (FTA), a possible guilty in absentia ruling, and/or a bench warrant. 

A bench warrant will complicate your life and your job. We help you manage all court dates and legal deadlines. Our team is dedicated to your success on the road.

Ask Bigger & Harman About Following Too Close in a CMV

Consult Bigger & Harman before you pay a citation in Roseville, CA. We help you avoid points and unnecessary traffic court appearances. You can protect your record and your driving career.

Call us at (661) 349-9300 or 859-1177 para Español.  Email us to discuss your situation at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our automated and secure contact form. 

Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section

Q: How does following too close tickets affect my CDL?

A: A paid fine or conviction impacts your DMV record in California, and your PSP at the FMCSA.

Q: Will my employer find out about the ticket?

A: Not if it is dismissed or reduced to a no-point violation with a fine only that is not reflected on your record. However, a paid fine for a moving violation is a conviction, and you must notify your employer within 30 days. Plus, the Employer Pull Notice (EPN) Program will notify your employer on the anniversary of them enrolling you in the program at the very least. 

Q: How else can I avoid court and keep driving without paying the fine?

A: Hire Bigger & Harman to resolve your traffic ticket. Although our fee might be more than the fine, we can often get no-point conviction and full dismissals to keep your driving record clean.   

References:

The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.31, Paragraph 6.2.7, Notifying Employer of Convictions.

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.

The Employer Pull Notice (EPN) Program website.

The DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 383.51, Paragraph 6.2.5, Disqualification of Drivers.

CA VC Section 21703, Additional Driving Rules.