Bloomington CDL Attorney
Defending People with CDLs against Tickets
If you are a CDL driver and recently received a speeding ticket, it is imperative that you speak with a Bloomington CDL attorney from Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols. Trucks are a common sight on the roadways. They are responsible for delivering items from ports to distribution centers, hubs to retail stores, etc. Without trucks, many consumers would be left without the goods needed to survive.
So, when you are hit with a speeding ticket, what can you do? A speeding ticket can have a serious impact on you if you have a Commercial Driver’s License. Because operating a large vehicle like a commercial truck can be more dangerous than operating a car, there are certain federal regulations that someone with a CDL operating a truck will have. Your CDL attorney Bloomington, IL trusts can help.
Below are a list of some of the most common federal regulations regarding CDL drivers. If you have received a speeding ticket, you should speak with a CDL attorney in Bloomington, Illinois today.
Hours a Trucker Can Drive
The most important regulation on the books today has been in existence since 1937. It is called the Hours of Service rule, and it limits the number of hours truckers can be actively driving before needing to take a break. The regulation is aimed to stop drivers from taking unsafe loads on little to no sleep. The current law states that a driver may operate a truck for no more than 14 hours without taking a mandatory 10-hour rest. Until recently, this rule was difficult to enforce since drivers and trucking companies operated on the honor system.
Electronic Logging Devices
Advancement in technology has made it more difficult for drivers to fudge the hours they are driving versus resting. Electronic logging devices are connected to a truck’s engine and keep track of the time it is in use. The device was created to prevent drivers from lying about the hours they were driving. Now, electronic logging devices are required in every truck that takes to the road.
Licensing Requirements
It is no surprise that truck drivers need a special license to drive big rigs. A CDL requires holders to pass a written exam and a driving test demonstrating their ability to operate the large vehicle. Drivers must also meet the following criteria:
- Be 21 years old
- Hold a regular driver’s license
- Pass a medical verification and be in fitting health
- Possess a clean driving record
Failure to meet these may mean a candidate doesn’t get their CDL.
Alcohol and Drug Testing
Truck drivers need to be prepared to submit to random drug and alcohol tests during their career. The government regulations governing this are clear on a few things. First, a trucker must not ever have more than a .02 BAC while on duty. If they are tested within eight hours of the beginning of a shift, they must not have any drugs of alcohol present in their systems. Finally, a driver must not be transporting alcohol unless it is part of the load.
Safety on the road is a priority for many and those who hold a CDL take their responsibility seriously. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need a Bloomington CDL attorney.
Defending People with CDLs against Tickets
For someone with a CDL, the stakes are really raised when they get a traffic ticket. What would otherwise be a routine speeding ticket becomes a serious situation for a CDL holder. For many their CDL is their livelihood and they cannot afford to put that in jeopardy.
We are Experienced at Negotiating CDL Tickets with the State
When you receive a traffic ticket and have a CDL take it seriously. Make sure you understand the ramifications of pleading guilty or getting court supervision. In most instances, getting court supervision doesn’t do you any good with your CDL and is treated the same as a guilty plea.
Consequences of a Ticket and a CDL
There are several ways in which a ticket can affect your CDL. For one, too many tickets in too short a period can suspend or revoke your CDL. Tickets can also affect your insurance rates. It could even affect your ability to get hired as prospective employers will be able to view your driving record and see your past tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Law
Various regulations and requirements are necessary for obtaining and maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDLL). As Bloomington, IL CDL attorneys, we frequently encounter questions from clients regarding CDL laws and their implications. To help you better understand these laws, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive.
What Is CDL Self-certification?
CDL self-certification is a process where CDL holders must declare the type of commercial driving they perform. This requirement ensures that the driver’s medical status is appropriately aligned with the type of driving they engage in, whether it’s interstate or intrastate, and whether they are subject to federal or state medical requirements. This declaration helps regulatory bodies keep accurate records and ensure that drivers meet the necessary medical standards for their specific type of commercial driving.
How Often Do I Need To Submit Or Re-submit My CDL Self-certification?
Once you submit your CDL self-certification, you generally do not need to re-submit it unless there is a change in the type of driving you perform. For instance, if you switch from interstate driving (which requires a federal medical certificate) to intrastate driving (which may have different state-specific requirements), you would need to update your self-certification accordingly. To avoid any compliance issues that could have an impact on your CDL status, it’s imperative that you keep your certification up to date.
What Happens If I Change The Type Of Operation I Perform With My CDL?
Our Bloomington, IL CDL attorney will share that if you change the type of operation you perform with your CDL, such as moving from non-excepted interstate driving to excepted interstate driving, you must update your self-certification. Failing to do so can lead to discrepancies in your medical certification records, which can result in your CDL being downgraded or revoked. Always notify your local licensing authority of any changes in your operation type to maintain compliance and avoid potential penalties.
What Are The Consequences Of Not Providing The Necessary Medical Examiner’s Certificate?
Not providing the necessary medical examiner’s certificate can have serious consequences for CDL holders. If the medical examiner’s certificate (or a medical variance if applicable) is not provided within the required timeframe, the driver’s CDL privileges can be downgraded to a non-commercial status. This means you would no longer be legally permitted to operate commercial vehicles, impacting your livelihood and career. It is essential to ensure that your medical certification is always current and submitted on time to avoid these issues.
How Do I Comply With The New Requirements For Making My Medical Certification Part Of My CDL Record?
To comply with the new requirements for making your medical certification part of your CDL record, you need to follow specific steps whenever you apply for or renew your CDL. This includes self-certifying the type of commercial operation you will be engaged in and submitting the appropriate medical examiner’s certificate. Your medical certification will then be linked to your CDL record, making it accessible to law enforcement and regulatory agencies. Keeping your medical certificate up to date and ensuring it is properly filed with the licensing authority is crucial for maintaining your CDL status.
Keeping Your CDL Compliant
It is imperative for all commercial drivers to understand and adhere to CDL laws. Since 1938, our firm at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols, has been here to assist our clients with any questions or concerns regarding their CDL and ensure they remain compliant with all necessary regulations. As Bloomington, IL CDL attorneys, we are committed to helping you manage the legal requirements and keep your career on track. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, our tenured experience offers results to those in need of legal support. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and let us help you secure your future on the road.
