Legal Representation for Traffic Violations
While all drivers face the seriousness of traffic violations, people with professional driving privileges, such as commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs), are at a greater risk of substantial consequences. In Virginia, infractions like weight violations, speeding, reckless driving, and log violations not only lead to fines and penalties but can also jeopardize a commercial driver’s employment.
Recognizing that a CDL signifies more than just a license; it is evidence of one’s professionalism and commitment to high standards of conduct on the road. At the KGO Law Firm, we acknowledge that for jobs requiring a CDL, even a minor incident, whether on or off the job, can have enduring effects on a professional record. With years of legal experience, KGO Law Firm comprehends the complexities of reducing or dismissing CDL traffic violations whenever possible.
We are equipped to mount a robust defense for clients, from issuing charges to trial and administrative hearings. When you engage with KGO Law Firm, our foremost goal is to preserve the clarity of your professional driving record for current and future employment opportunities.
If you’ve received citations for speeding, reckless driving, overweight violations, logbook violations, or other offenses in Virginia, contact us at (703) 988-3711 to arrange a free consultation. Discover how we can safeguard your CDL and driving record, ensuring your career and livelihood remain intact.
Protect Your CDL with Legal Defense for Traffic Offenses and Citations
Suppose you find yourself facing citations for offenses such as speeding, reckless driving, DUI, exceeding weight limits, log violations, or any other moving or nonmoving violations. In that case, seeking legal representation from a Virginia CDL ticket lawyer well-versed in local laws and court procedures is crucial. In the event of a CDL citation, our KGO Law Firm collaborates with you to minimize the repercussions, aiming for outcomes such as dismissal, reduced charges, or other favorable results.
Consequences of Traffic Violations and Convictions
What are the potential repercussions of traffic violations and convictions on a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)? Here are some potential consequences:
1. One-year disqualification for major violations such as:
- Operating a vehicle with the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Declining to undergo a blood or breath test
- Neglecting to halt at the site of an accident resulting in injury or fatality
- Driving a vehicle with a BAC equal to or exceeding 0.04
- Utilizing a commercial motor vehicle to engage in a felony
- Providing false information on a commercial driver’s license application
2. A three-year disqualification will be imposed if found guilty of the mentioned offenses while transporting hazardous materials.
3. Lifetime disqualification for a second conviction of major violations.
4. 60-day disqualification for serious violations, including:
- Engaging in texting while in control of a commercial motor vehicle
- Going over the speed limit by 15 miles per hour or beyond
- Conducting reckless driving behavior
- Making erratic lane changes
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Committing a moving violation resulting in a fatal crash
- Operating a commercial vehicle without a legitimate Commercial Driver’s License
- Driving a commercial vehicle without carrying the CDL in immediate possession
- Driving a commercial vehicle surpassing the weight limit
- Operating a vehicle without the appropriate CDL class or endorsements for the specific vehicle group, passengers, or cargo being transported.
5. 120-day disqualification for three or more serious violations within three years.
When facing a significant traffic violation, including violations of federal trucking regulations, hiring an experienced CDL ticket lawyer is advisable. Professional counsel can substantially improve the chances of a favorable outcome compared to self-representation. With too much at stake in cases of major or serious violations, it is not worth risking the outcome by representing oneself. We encourage contacting our offices promptly to schedule a free consultation if legal assistance is needed. This allows us to begin efforts to mitigate potential penalties swiftly.
Offenses Unique to CDL Holders
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration holds regulatory authority for establishing and enforcing numerous regulations that govern commercial interstate carriers and their drivers. Additionally, individual states have implemented specific regulations for commercial trucking that are applicable to CDL holders in conjunction with general driving regulations that pertain to all drivers (e.g., speeding and reckless driving). Commercial interstate drivers may face penalties for breaching regulations imposed by FMCSA and commercial driving statutes in the state of Virginia, including the following:
Weight Violations
According to Virginia Code § 46.2-1133, individuals responsible for a vehicle exceeding the statutory weight limits, including owners, operators, or other parties, can face a $250 fine and CDL suspension. An oversized load permit can be obtained annually or per trip to prevent such violations.
Logbook Discrepancies
CDL drivers are required to maintain an up-to-date logbook accurately reflecting their driving hours. Presently, compliance with federal log book regulations is achieved through an FMCSA-certified Electronic Logging Device (ELD). Falsifying or neglecting logbook maintenance can lead to federal penalties and a potential six-month jail term.
Speeding with a Trailer
Exceeding the speed limit by at least 15 miles per hour when towing a trailer may lead to the suspension of your driving license.
Grade Restrictions
CDL drivers are prohibited from operating on roadways with grades (steepness) exceeding vehicle specifications. Violating this restriction can lead to a 60-day license suspension for a first offense.
Multiple CDLs
It is prohibited for drivers to possess more than one CDL. Individuals found with multiple licenses from different states may face a $5,000 fine and potential jail time.
Seek assistance from a seasoned Virginia CDL attorney.
At KGO Law Firm, we approach all traffic charges with utmost seriousness, understanding the significance of the situation. Our representation extends to both state and federal courts, as well as administrative courts and before judges. We are persistent in our pursuit of achieving the optimal outcome for every client on every occasion. Discover how we can assist in averting a conviction or mitigating the potential loss or adverse impact on your CDL.