Professional Drivers

Traffic Violations and Professional Drivers

Receiving a traffic ticket is not uncommon, but for professional drivers, the stakes are much higher. Mistakes made by those in the driving profession can carry significant weight and lead to long-term consequences that impact both their careers and livelihoods.

Maintaining a clean driving record is essential for professional drivers. If you are facing allegations of a traffic violation, acting swiftly is crucial. Hiring an experienced Criminal Lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your driving privileges and career.

At Logue Law Group, our skilled defense attorneys, well-versed in handling commercial driving license (CDL) cases, strive to have charges reduced or dismissed entirely. Working with a dedicated Waynesburg DUI attorney could significantly lower future costs related to insurance premiums and fines, while helping you safeguard your livelihood.

Rules for Commercial and Professional Drivers

Traffic violations can lead to severe consequences for professional drivers, including:

• Points added to your driving record
• Steep fines
• Increased insurance premiums

Accumulating too many points can result in a suspended license, a devastating outcome for those who depend on driving for their careers. A Waynesburg criminal lawyer can help you avoid or reduce these penalties and protect your livelihood.

Notification Requirements

If you hold a CDL, you are required to notify both your employer and PennDOT within 30 days of receiving a traffic violation, even when the violation occurs out of state. Failure to comply with this requirement could have additional repercussions on your record.

Penalties for Rule Violations

Violating CDL regulations can have serious consequences. For a first offense, PennDOT may suspend your CDL for a minimum of one year for any of the following:

• Driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) with a suspended, revoked, recalled, or canceled CDL
• Using a CMV to commit a felony
• Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it
• Causing damage to unattended property or vehicles with a CMV
• Being involved in an accident that causes injury or death while operating a CMV
• Driving a CMV while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances
• Operating a CMV with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04 or higher (half the legal limit in Pennsylvania)
• Refusing to take a blood alcohol test

For a second offense, your CDL could be suspended for life. Furthermore, if you commit any of these violations while transporting hazardous materials, your CDL may be revoked for three years for a first offense. A knowledgeable Waynesburg criminal lawyer can help you challenge these penalties and possibly save your CDL.

Repercussions of Repeat Violations

Professional drivers found guilty of two serious violations within three years may face a license suspension lasting a minimum of 60 days. If guilty of three serious violations, the suspension period extends to 120 days. Ensure you are fully aware of these consequences and act promptly to address any violations. A skilled Waynesburg DUI attorney from Logue Law Group can review your situation and provide immediate legal counsel.

Out-of-State Violations

If your CDL is suspended in another state, this information will be accessible to your company and other entities via the National Driving Register. This database ensures that if your license is suspended in one state, it will be honored by Pennsylvania as well. Even minor infractions outside of Pennsylvania could have a cascading effect on your driving record.

Why You Need Professional Legal Representation

When faced with a traffic violation, working with a reputable Waynesburg criminal lawyer can help you take proactive steps to protect your rights and career. An experienced lawyer will analyze your situation and craft an effective defense strategy, helping you minimize the impact of the charges.

Your livelihood is too important to jeopardize. Contact a DUI Attorney as soon as you receive a traffic citation to get the support you need.

Contact Logue Law Group

If you need representation from an experienced Waynesburg criminal lawyer, the team at Logue Law Group is here to help. We proudly serve Waynesburg and surrounding areas, providing top-tier legal support to commercial and professional drivers.

Reach out to us online or call 844.PITT.DUI anytime, day or night, for a complimentary initial consultation. Don’t leave your career to chance—get professional legal help today.