For commercial drivers, the holiday season often means increased workloads, tighter schedules, and added pressure on the road. Unfortunately, this also raises the risk of receiving a commercial driver’s license (CDL) violation. If you’ve faced a CDL violation during the holidays, you may be worried about how it could affect your livelihood. At Plunkett, Hamilton, Manton & Graves, LLP in Augusta, GA, our experienced attorneys understand the stakes and are here to help protect your CDL and your career.
How CDL Violations Put Your Job at Risk
Your CDL is more than a license—it’s your lifeline to earning a living. A violation can lead to severe consequences, including:
- Fines and Penalties: CDL violations can carry heavy financial penalties that strain your budget.
- Points on Your Driving Record: Violations often result in points being added to your record, increasing your risk of license suspension.
- License Suspension or Revocation: Serious or repeated violations can result in losing your CDL, potentially ending your career.
- Employment Challenges: Employers in the trucking and logistics industries are often hesitant to hire drivers with a history of violations.
Even a seemingly minor infraction can escalate quickly if not addressed properly. That’s why it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your license and your job.
Common CDL Violations During the Holidays
The holidays are a busy time for commercial drivers, often resulting in tighter deadlines and more miles on the road. Common violations during this period include:
- Speeding: Tight schedules can lead to exceeding speed limits, especially in areas with reduced holiday traffic.
- Hours of Service Violations: Drivers may push their limits to meet deadlines, violating federal regulations on rest breaks and driving hours.
- Improper Lane Changes: Heavy holiday traffic and fatigue can result in unsafe lane changes or failure to signal.
- Overweight Loads: The increased demand for goods can lead to exceeding legal weight limits, resulting in fines and violations.
- DUI or Drug-Related Violations: Even off-duty violations for CDL holders can have devastating professional consequences.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a single serious violation can put your CDL at risk, while multiple offenses may result in disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle altogether.
Why You Need an Experienced CDL Violation Lawyer
Navigating CDL violations and their consequences can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Hiring an experienced lawyer offers several advantages, including:
- Understanding CDL Regulations: A knowledgeable attorney knows the intricacies of federal and state CDL laws and can identify the best defenses for your case.
- Minimizing Penalties: Skilled legal representation can reduce fines, points, and the risk of license suspension.
- Protecting Your Job: By preserving your CDL, a lawyer helps ensure your ability to continue earning a living.
- Expert Advocacy: Your attorney will represent you in court, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Trust Plunkett, Hamilton, Manton & Graves, LLP to Defend Your CDL
At Plunkett, Hamilton, Manton & Graves, LLP in Augusta, GA, we specialize in defending commercial drivers facing CDL violations. We understand how much is at stake for you and your family, and we are committed to providing the expert legal representation you deserve.
If you’ve received a CDL violation over the holidays, don’t wait to take action. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you protect your license, your career, and your future.
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