Receiving a traffic ticket of any kind is not a fun experience. However, getting a speeding ticket in a semi-truck differs from the average violation. Drivers with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) face more serious consequences to their career and the status of their driving privileges. If you are a CDL holder, it is critical to know the basics of speeding violations for commercial drivers.
CDL Speeding Violations vs Personal Vehicle
Speeding Ticket in a Commercial Motor Vehicle
Receiving a speeding ticket in a semi-truck is more serious than a speeding ticket for a regular driver. Each state imposes specific penalties for speeding violations. In Arizona, you can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. Commercial drivers also face fines of up to $2,500, six months of jail time, and points against their CDL if they are convicted of a traffic infraction.
Speeding Ticket in a Personal Vehicle
Speeding in a personal vehicle is less serious, but it can still affect your CDL. Any traffic violation that results in the revocation of personal driving privileges will revoke commercial driving privileges as well.
Consequences of Getting a Speeding Ticket as a Trucker
Accumulating points on your CDL from traffic violations and speeding tickets can have serious consequences, including points on your CDL, revocation of your license, and possible employment termination.
The severity of the consequences depend on the severity of the speeding incident and any other circumstances. However, it’s important to keep in mind that, considering the large size of semi-trucks, any speeding has the potential to cause a serious accident. Trucking companies take safety seriously and as a driver, you should too.
Revocation
Earning multiple tickets as a truck driver compounds the consequences. Receiving two or more serious violations within three years leads to revocation for 60 days, and a subsequent violation within that same period will earn you a 120-day revocation.
Possible Employment Termination
A conviction for a speeding ticket directly affects your employment status. Your employer has the right to take action against you after any traffic violations regardless of how many points it adds to your driving record. When you get a license disqualification, you can be put on probation or terminated. It is also likely that you will not make it past the recruitment phase with other companies once they receive a copy of your driving record.
Drive Your Future Forward With DSW
Whether you’ve just passed your CDL skills and written exams or you already have truck driving experience, DSW is the best choice for your career growth. We are committed to providing our drivers with quality equipment, strong miles, competitive pay, and a stable career.
Contact us today for more information about our openings for over-the-road drivers.
