Professional Drivers

Getting a traffic ticket might seem like a minor inconvenience to some, but for professional drivers, its impact can be severe. For those whose livelihood depends on being behind the wheel, even a small mistake can have considerable and lasting consequences.

It’s essential to aim for a clean driving record rather than simply accepting penalties for traffic violations. If you find yourself accused of a traffic violation, don’t wait. Hiring an experienced Somerset criminal lawyer is critical to safeguarding both your career and future opportunities.

At Logue Law Group, we specialize in defending professional drivers, including those holding a Commercial Driving License (CDL). Our team of skilled defense attorneys has a strong record of successfully handling CDL cases. Whether working to reduce charges or seeking dismissal, a competent Somerset DUI attorney can help protect your driving privileges and save you from significant repercussions like increased insurance premiums and hefty fines.

Rules for Commercial and Professional Drivers

Violating traffic laws as a professional driver can result in serious consequences, including points on your driving record, higher insurance premiums, and substantial fines. Worse still, accumulating too many points can lead to a suspension of your Commercial Driving License (CDL)—a devastating outcome for anyone whose job relies on their ability to drive.

Notification Obligations

If you are a CDL holder and receive a traffic violation—even if it happens out of state—you must notify both your employer and PennDOT within 30 days. Failing to do so could lead to additional legal complications.

Common Penalties

Professional drivers in Somerset who commit offenses face strict consequences, even for first-time violations. For example, PennDOT enforces a minimum one-year suspension of your CDL for infractions such as:

• Operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) while your CDL is suspended, revoked, recalled, or canceled.
• Using a CMV to commit a felony.
• Fleeing an accident scene without reporting it.
• Damaging unoccupied vehicles or property with a CMV.
• Causing injury or death due to a CMV-related accident.
• Driving a CMV with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher (half of Pennsylvania’s standard legal limit).
• Refusing to take a blood alcohol test.

For a second offense, your license could be suspended for life, making it all the more important to consult a Somerset criminal lawyer who understands CDL regulations and provides proper legal guidance.

Hazardous Materials and Severe Cases

If you’re transporting hazardous materials during a traffic violation, be prepared for even harsher penalties. A first offense in such a case could lead to a three-year license suspension. Understanding these complexities and the risks they carry is crucial as a professional driver.

Don’t ignore your circumstances. If you’re facing allegations of traffic misconduct involving your CMV, a Somerset DUI attorney can help you determine the best course of action to minimize the risk of losing your driving privileges.

Consequences of Multiple Violations

If professional drivers commit two serious violations within a three-year period, their CDL will be suspended for a minimum of 60 days. Commit three violations in the same time frame, and you’re looking at a 120-day suspension.

Additionally, offenses committed out of state are tracked through the National Driving Register, a shared database accessible to companies and governing agencies. One state suspending your CDL will trigger automatic suspension in Pennsylvania as well. Even minor out-of-state violations can leave long-term blemishes on your driving record, impacting your career.

Professional Legal Assistance

If you’ve been accused of a traffic violation, having an experienced and dedicated Somerset criminal lawyer on your side is vital. Your attorney can carefully assess your circumstances, provide tailored advice, and tirelessly work to safeguard your best interests.

Don’t risk your livelihood. If the unthinkable happens and you’re issued a citation, immediately contact a Somerset DUI attorney. They will ensure you receive sound legal representation, keeping your driving career and reputation intact.

Complimentary Consultation

At Logue Law Group, we pride ourselves on being an unwavering resource for professional drivers in Somerset and the surrounding areas. We also extend our services to West Virginia and Ohio.

Reach out through our online form or call us any time, day or night, at 844.PITT.DUI. We offer complimentary initial consultations with one of our experienced Somerset criminal lawyers or DUI attorneys to help guide you through the complexities of this challenging process. Your livelihood matters to us.