Commercial driver’s licenses are not treated the same as regular driver’s licenses. A CDL represents a professional qualification, where both Utah and federal rules are designed to protect public safety. That means even traffic violations that might be minor for a passenger vehicle can carry much harsher consequences for CDL holders.
If you drive commercially in Utah, it is important to understand how traffic tickets and speeding citations can impact your CDL. This includes not only the immediate legal consequences but also long-term effects on employment, insurance, and your ability to keep driving. At Jardine Law Offices, our traffic offense attorneys regularly handle traffic-related offenses for commercial drivers and can help you understand your options and protect your driving privileges.
CDL holders face stricter penalties because commercial driving is treated as a higher-risk activity. The rules are designed to ensure that drivers who operate large trucks or passenger vehicles are held to a higher standard. Even a single violation can lead to disqualification, and multiple violations can end your career.
Some reasons CDL holders face harsher penalties include:
Because of these factors, Utah and federal law apply specific disqualification rules to CDL holders. Knowing these rules can help you take the right steps after a ticket.
Certain traffic violations automatically trigger CDL disqualification. These violations are treated as serious because they indicate a high risk of harm to others on the road.
A CDL holder can face disqualification for serious traffic offenses such as:
Reckless driving is one of the most serious traffic violations for CDL holders. A reckless driving conviction can lead to immediate disqualification and a loss of driving privileges. Lane violations are also treated seriously because commercial vehicles require more space and time to maneuver safely.
Examples of lane-related violations that can lead to CDL consequences include:
Even if the violation seems minor, it can still be treated as a serious offense when a CDL is involved.
Speeding tickets affect CDL holders differently than regular drivers. In Utah, the speed at which you are driving can determine whether your CDL is at risk.
Excessive speeding is treated as a serious violation under federal rules. A speeding ticket for 15 miles per hour or more over the posted limit can result in disqualification and impact your CDL.
The consequences can include:
Even a single excessive speeding ticket can affect your career, especially if your employer has strict safety policies.
Beyond license disqualification, traffic tickets can affect your employment and insurance. Employers in the commercial driving industry often have strict safety standards and review driving records closely.
Consequences may include:
Because of these risks, it is important to take traffic tickets seriously and consider legal options early.
Utah has specific rules regarding CDL violations and reporting. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules also apply, and commercial drivers must comply with both state and federal regulations.
CDL holders are required to report certain traffic violations to their employer, and those violations may be reported to the state and the FMCSA. This means a ticket can have consequences beyond just the local court system.
Under FMCSA rules, CDL holders may face automatic disqualification for serious violations. The most common suspensions include:
These suspensions can apply to serious traffic violations, including excessive speeding and reckless driving. It is important to understand how these rules apply to your specific situation and what steps you can take to protect your CDL.
A traffic ticket does not automatically mean you will lose your CDL. In many cases, a strong defense can reduce or dismiss the charges. A skilled attorney can review the details of the stop, the evidence, and the circumstances to identify potential defenses.
Common defenses include:
Many CDL holders receive tickets in jurisdictions like Davis County or Farmington. These local courts can have specific procedures and timelines that must be followed.
If you receive a ticket in Davis or Farmington, it is important to understand:
Navigating these courts without legal help can lead to mistakes that hurt your record and your CDL status.
If you have received a traffic ticket while holding a CDL, it is best to contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Early legal intervention can help you:
At Jardine Law Offices, we handle traffic-related offenses regularly and understand the impact these tickets can have on CDL holders. If you are facing a ticket that could affect your CDL, contact us at (801) 451-9555 for your free, confidential consultation. We can review your case and help you take the steps needed to protect your license and your livelihood.
