Truck driving is an essential part of the American economy. Without truck drivers, our country would come to a standstill. Truck drivers are responsible for transporting goods across the country, ensuring the steady flow of commerce. However, like any other profession, even truck drivers are prone to making mistakes while working. When a truck driver gets a traffic violation, it can have significant consequences on their career and livelihood. In this blog post, we’ll talk about what happens when a truck driver has a traffic violation, and what steps they should take to minimize the impact of the violation.
Violation Forms
Traffic violations come in different forms – speeding, reckless driving, DUI, etc. Any traffic violation is a serious matter, and the repercussions can be significant. For truck drivers, traffic violations can result in losing their commercial driver’s license (CDL). A CDL is the primary requirement for truck drivers to legally operate a commercial truck. Without a CDL, truck drivers cannot work, and their income comes to a complete halt.
Consequences
The first consequence that a truck driver can expect after committing a traffic violation is a monetary fine. The amount can vary depending on the severity of the violation and the location where it occurred. The fines can be steep, and truck drivers need to be prepared to pay out of their pockets. Failing to pay a fine can result in a suspension of their driving privileges and even legal action.
Depending on the severity of the traffic violation, the truck driver may be required to attend defensive driving classes or complete community service. This step is taken to ensure that the driver does not make the same mistake again. It is essential for truck drivers to comply with these requirements to minimize the impact of the violation.
Serious traffic violations like DUI, reckless driving, or hit-and-run can result in immediate suspension or revocation of a CDL. Even minor violations can lead to accumulating points on the truck driver’s driving record. If a driver accumulates too many points, they could lose their license or face restrictions on their driving privileges, just like regular drivers. It’s essential to understand their state’s point system and the consequences of accumulating points on your driving record no matter the type of vehicle you’re licensed for.
Lastly, a traffic violation on a truck driver’s record can negatively affect their job prospects. When trucking companies hire drivers, they check the driver’s driving record and criminal background. A poor driving record could lead to rejection from prospective employers or impact the driver’s salary. So it’s important that truck drivers take steps to keep their driving record clean or they might not have a successful career in the trucking industry.
Fighting the Charges
One method available to truck drivers facing a traffic violation is to contest the charges legally. This course of action is best pursued with the assistance of an attorney experienced in handling trucker tickets. It’s important to remember that the legalities surrounding traffic violations can be complex and vary from state to state. An attorney can guide the driver through the legal process, explaining the charges, potential defenses, and likely outcomes. Win or lose, this process can consume considerable time and resources, so it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the costs involved.
Trucker ticket attorneys often help drivers by investigating the circumstances of the violation and identifying any procedural errors or inconsistencies in evidence that could weaken the case against the driver. They can also represent the driver in court, dealing directly with prosecutors or judges. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate a plea deal or reduced penalties, such as dismissing points or minimizing fines. However, it’s important to remember that every case is unique, and success in fighting ticket charges can never be guaranteed. Despite the complexities involved, seeking legal assistance can sometimes be a truck driver’s best bet in preserving their driving record and career.
Traffic violations are not ideal for anyone, and truck drivers are no exception. The consequences of traffic violations can have a significant impact on truck drivers, from paying hefty fines, attending driving classes, losing their CDL, or facing employment rejection. Therefore, it is essential for truck drivers to maintain road safety and comply with traffic rules to avoid these consequences. Remember, road safety is not just for your benefit but for the safety of everyone around you.