Miami Commercial Driver's License Attorney

Commercial Traffic Violations in Florida

Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is far more difficult than getting a civilian-level driver's license and yet losing one due to legal penalties is all the quicker. Due to the increased size and weight of most commercial vehicles – a semi-truck or tractor being driven down a roadway to a jobsite, for example – care and consideration cannot be ignored while operating one. Accidents with a commercial vehicle are more likely to cause high amounts of damages, including injury to those involved.

If you have a CDL and operate a commercial vehicle, you need to be aware of the severity traffic violations may incur upon your employment status. As with civilian driver's licenses, errors and violations will add "points" to the license – too many points accrued and the license is revoked. Even if you are ticketed in your personally owned, family vehicle, points may be applied to your CDL based on the circumstances.

How are points added to my CDL?

Most violations that can add points to your driver's license will add up to 1.5x that amount to your commercial driver's license. This means that certain violations involving a commercial vehicle could result in the immediate revocation of your CDL.

Common traffic violations that carry severe penalties against truck drivers include:

• Speeding: Going faster to reach your destination may seem like a good way to keep your job, but it is actually a great way to lose it. Going just 15 miles per hour over a posted speed limit in a semi-truck is viewed as a harsh violation, sometimes comparable to going 30 miles per hour over the speed limit in a civilian vehicle.
• DUI: Driving while intoxicated is always a terrible idea, as it impairs judgement, reaction time, and motor control. If you are caught operating your commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or another illicit substance, your CDL will likely be revoked.
• Tailgating: Following too closely to another driver while operating a tractor trailer is extremely dangerous. If the other driver must brake suddenly, they can find themselves crushed by the front end of your massive vehicle.

What do I do if my CDL is going to be revoked?

Even if you have been ticketed for traffic violations in your commercial vehicle and did not contest them, you do not have to lose your CDL. One of our experienced traffic lawyers in Miami will be able to evaluate your case and help you keep your commercial driver's license.

Contact the Law Offices of Daniel Schulefand today to start defending your future.