Three Things CDL Drivers Should Know About Traffic Violations

 Posted on November 25, 2024 in Traffic Violations

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) comes with major responsibility. The law holds CDL drivers to higher standards, reflecting the trust that other motorists place in them. As a result of this higher trust, certain traffic violations are penalized more heavily for CDL drivers than civilian drivers.

Some of these traffic violations are serious, coming with unexpected consequences for your license if violated. Any consequence for your CDL is a threat to your gainful employment and should be taken seriously. A Tennessee traffic defense attorney at The Baker Law Firm can see that your best interests are defended in court, protecting your livelihood to the fullest extent of the law.

Serious and Major Violations

The state of Tennessee places CDL violations into two categories: "serious" and "major." It is worth knowing the difference between what constitutes a serious or major CDL violation, or even which one is worse. The former category – serious violations – covers lesser offenses like speeding, tailgating, or swerving between lanes. A first-time conviction of a serious offense might not have any immediate consequences for your CDL, but for a second conviction within three years, your CDL could be suspended for 60 days. Major offenses cover more dangerous acts behind the wheel, like driving under the influence or fleeing the scene of an accident. A conviction of this charge, even on a first-time offense, will lead to the one-year suspension of your CDL.

The penalties for both a serious or major violation can be steep. If you are accused of either charge, you should consult with a traffic defense attorney to figure out a legal strategy.

CDL Violations Can Occur Outside of a Commercial Vehicle

You may think that your actions outside of work have no bearing on your commercial driver’s license, but the law does make exceptions for certain violations. For instance, using a vehicle in the commission of a felony can result in the disqualification of your CDL, whether it was a commercial vehicle or not. If you think your CDL could be jeopardized by a crime committed outside of your work, a traffic defense lawyer can advise you on how to respond in the legal proceedings.

DUI Charges Are Stricter for CDL Holders

Tennessee law takes driving under the influence very seriously, especially if the impaired driver was in a commercial vehicle at the time of the offense. Under most circumstances, the state considers you legally intoxicated at a blood alcohol content of .08 percent, which is when you can be charged with driving under the influence. However, the legal limit for a CDL is halved to .04 percent BAC, and driving under the influence is a major violation. Furthermore, Tennessee has an "implied consent" law along with many other states, meaning that when you get on the road, you automatically give state authorities permission to stop and test you for alcohol or drugs in your bloodstream. Refusing a test will result in the disqualification of your CDL for a year.

Meet with a Farragut, TN Traffic Violation Defense Lawyer Today

CDL holders face great pressure from law enforcement to stay out of trouble. If you have been charged with any kind of traffic violation as a commercial driver, a skilled Knox County, TN traffic defense attorney at The Baker Law Firm can represent you in court and protect your right to work. Call 865-200-4117 to schedule a free consultation.