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CDL Drivers and Traffic Tickets

Speeding or reckless driving tickets for commercial drivers can lead to severe consequences, even if you were driving your personal vehicle when ticketed.

Serious Violations

The most common problems for CDL drivers are categorized as Serious Violations. Two Serious Violations within a three years period will lead to a CDL disqualification (suspension) for 60 days. The CDL suspension goes up to 120 days if you are convicted of three Serious Violations within three years.

Serious Violations include:

  • Speeding 15 mph or more above the speed limit
  • Reckless driving
  • Texting while operating a commercial motor vehicle
  • Improper or erratic lane change
  • Following too closely
  • A moving violation related to a fatal crash
  • Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial driver's license in the driver's immediate possession
  • Driving a commercial motor vehicle without the proper CDL class and/or endorsements for the specific vehicle group being operated or for the passengers or type of cargo being transported

CDL drivers should almost never pay the ticket fine without first consulting a traffic attorney. Even if this is your first Serious Violation, please contact me to talk about your chances of reducing the charge.

CDL Drivers and the Driver Improvement Class

Unlike most drivers, CDL drivers are not eligible to take a Driver Improvement Class to have your ticket reduced or dismissed (see Virginia Code § 46.2‑505). Your best option is to hire a traffic attorney who knows the ropes, is familiar with the prosecutors, and can try to negotiate an amendment to your charge.

If you drive for a living and have been charged with a traffic violation, call the Law Office of James Steele (a free and confidential consultation) to find out if we can help.