Frequently Asked Questions on Speeding Tickets in California for CDL Holders: What to Do and What Happens Next

Being a truck driver comes with a set of unique challenges, one of which is navigating the complex rules surrounding overspeeding. If you are one of many CDL holders who has received two speeding tickets in California within three months, you might be wondering about the repercussions and what you can do to minimize the impacts on your career and license. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you navigate this situation.

General Guidelines and Legal Implications

The first crucial step is to comply with the legal requirements. According to California law, if you receive a speeding ticket, it's important to:

Do not miss your court date. Pay the fine and continue your journey. Inform your employer about the ticket and your payment.

By following these steps, you can avoid losing your driver's license and retaining your job.

Strategies to Manage Speeding Tickets

To avoid the potential consequences of multiple speeding tickets, you can:

Attend traffic school for one of the tickets. Completing the courses can help mitigate the impact on your record. Slow down and avoid speeding in the future. The penalties can get expensive, and it's better to adopt a more cautious driving style.

For those who have been in such situations before, it's important to be aware that it can be harder to get a pass from speed limits in California due to their artificially low speeds for trucks. It's worth advocating for higher speed limits to align with more modern standards, such as those found in Texas.

Understanding the Consequences and Company Policies

The exact consequences can vary based on several factors:

The specific company's policy. Each company has different rules about how they handle speeding tickets. How much you were over the speed limit. A significant overage can increase the potential penalties. Whether there are any other violations in your record. Multiple violations in a short period can lead to stricter consequences.

There is no standard answer regarding whether a company will fire a driver after two or more speeding tickets. Some companies are more lenient, allowing one or even two tickets, while others may take a more stringent approach. Additionally, in the context of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program, one speeding ticket can result in a minimum of 30 points, similar to other violations like brake issues or missing hours of service logs.

Impact on Your Career and License

In California, failing to attend court or pay the fine can result in the suspension of your license. It's crucial to understand that missed court dates can lead to significant problems, including legal penalties and potential loss of your license.

Regarding your employment, your options depend on your company's policies. You should inform your employer as soon as possible, as the FMCSA requires periodic records checks. By informing your employer proactively, you can improve your chances of retaining your position, albeit with the possibility that your employment could still be in jeopardy due to company discretion.

Common Sense and Smart Driving

The best approach to managing speeding tickets and avoiding future issues is to prioritize safe driving practices:

Drive within the speed limits and consider them realistic. Avoid aggressive driving and focus on road safety. Stay informed about traffic laws and company policies.

In the end, it's important to recognize that driving is a privilege and one that must be respected. If you find yourself in a situation where the loads you need to deliver require you to break the law, you may want to reconsider the company you're working for or request changes to your route in order to comply with the laws.

Conclusion

Managing speeding tickets as a CDL holder can be challenging, but by following legal guidelines, taking proactive steps, and understanding the potential impacts on your career, you can minimize the risks and keep your driving privileges intact.