Irving CDL Violations Attorney

Legal Representation for Commercial Drivers License Violations in Dallas and Irving

Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders are held to a very high standard in Texas. Commercial drivers are responsible for transporting goods across the state and throughout the country. Because the large size and weight of commercial vehicles can lead to devastating injuries in a collision, commercial drivers may be held accountable for their actions on the road. CDL violations can result in penalties, fines, and even the loss of a license. If you are a CDL holder who has been accused of violating traffic laws or commercial vehicle regulations, do not hesitate to contact a traffic violations attorney to determine the steps you can take to avoid the severe consequences of a CDL violation.

At the Law Office of Michelle Poblenz, we understand that a traffic violation can have devastating consequences for a CDL holder's career. As a result, we stand firmly committed to representing commercial drivers who have been accused of traffic violations, ensuring that their rights and best interests are always protected.

Common CDL Violations and Penalties

Some violations that commercial drivers in Texas may be charged with include:

• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) - Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a very serious CDL violation in Texas. A commercial driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04 or higher can be charged with DWI, and they can face severe penalties, including the loss of their CDL for one year or more for a first offense. Such an offense is considered a Class B misdemeanor, which can land someone in jail for 180 days and result in fines of up to $2,000. A second DWI offense may result in a lifetime CDL disqualification. In cases where someone is transporting hazardous materials while driving intoxicated, a license suspension will last for three years.
• Leaving the scene of an accident - This can result in a license suspension of one year for a first-time offense and a lifetime suspension for a second offense.
• Two serious traffic offenses - These offenses may include driving at a high rate of speed, reckless driving, dangerous lane-changing, and tailgating. If two such offenses occur within three years, a CDL holder may face a license suspension for 60 days.
• Three serious traffic offenses - If a commercial driver is convicted of three of these offenses within a three-year period, their CDL may be suspended for 120 days.
• Commission of a felony - If a driver is accused of committing a felony while operating a commercial vehicle, they may face a lifetime suspension of their CDL.
• Unlawful railroad crossing - Railroad crossing violations can result in a 60-day commercial driver's license suspension for a first offense, a suspension for 120 days if they are charged with another violation within three years, and a one-year suspension for a third offense that took place within three years of the first offense.

If you have been charged with a CDL violation, you will have 30 days after a conviction to notify your employer. The only exception to this rule is for minor parking violations.

Is it Possible to Get a CDL Speeding Ticket Dismissed?

Yes, you may be able to get a speeding ticket dismissed by contesting the ticket. If you challenge the ticket, the state must prove that you committed the alleged violation. Contesting a ticket as a CDL holder is similar to the process that may be followed by other drivers who challenge speeding violations. Commercial drivers have the right to a trial and to be represented by an attorney.

Can I Contest the Loss of My CDL?

Yes, you can contest the suspension of your license by requesting a hearing. CDL holders have 20 days to submit a request for a hearing. At the hearing, it will be determined whether the license suspension is justified based on the violations that were allegedly committed.

Contact a Dallas CDL Violations Lawyer

If your CDL has been suspended, you need skilled legal representation to fight the violation and hopefully avoid a conviction. The adverse consequences of a conviction can be very detrimental to your career as a commercial driver. There is a chance that if you are convicted of a CDL violation, you may lose your job entirely, since a CDL suspension will prevent you from operating a commercial vehicle.

At the Law Office of Michelle Poblenz, we know what is at stake when a commercial driver's license is suspended. Our skilled traffic violations attorney has ample experience representing drivers and defending their best interests in these situations. Contact us at 469-845-3031 for a private consultation.