For truckers and other professional drivers, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is as necessary a tool for earning a living as the vehicle they drive. So, if you receive a traffic violation, is your commercial driver’s license in jeopardy?
In short, it depends on the type of traffic violation you were ticketed for, and the severity of the violation will then determine the seriousness of the impact on your license. For serious crimes, such as vehicular manslaughter, your CDL would most likely be revoked, and you could be prevented from ever applying for a commercial driver’s license again. However, minor violations like speeding or parking tickets typically do not result in serious repercussions, unless they are repeatedly committed in a short period of time.
Penalties for Commercial Drivers
The following major violations could lead to serious penalties:
- DUI
- Fleeing the scene of an accident
- Using a vehicle to commit a felony
- Refusing an alcohol test
- Using a vehicle to distribute or manufacture drugs
- Driving with a revoked, suspended, or canceled commercial driver’s license
However, even minor tickets could add up to big consequences if you receive enough of them. If you receive multiple tickets for the same offense in a short period of time, you could have your license revoked or temporarily suspended. In some instances, your CDL could be permanently revoked.
Penalties for traffic violations could include any of the following:
- Fines
- Temporary or permanent loss of employment
- Increased insurance rates
- Driver’s license assessment
- Suspension or revocation of commercial driver’s license
- Jail
If you commit a traffic violation, commercial drivers are required by law to report the issue to their employer. Even if you suffer penalties and are then allowed to acquire your commercial driver’s license again, you will face expensive license reinstatement fees.
Defend Your CDL with the Help of Owenby Law, P.A.
Even for minor violations, any traffic issue is serious for commercial drivers because it could lead to employment setbacks and even a complete loss of income. The best thing you can do to defend your livelihood and future is to contact an attorney as soon as possible for legal help.
At Owenby Law, P.A., we understand how important your commercial driver’s license is to you. Our attorneys have years of experience advocating for the rights of drivers and we are serious about defending your license and livelihood. When you choose to work with our firm, we will examine the details of your case and situation and determine the best course of action to safeguard your future.
For legal counsel regarding your traffic violation and penalties for your commercial driver’s license, contact Owenby Law, P.A.