If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Richmond or anywhere in Virginia, traffic violations are more serious than for regular drivers. A speeding ticket, reckless driving charge, or DUI can affect not only your personal driving record but also your commercial driving privileges, livelihood, and career opportunities. At Inch Law, we understand the unique challenges CDL holders face and provide expert guidance to help protect your license and future.
CDL holders are held to higher standards under Virginia law. Commercial drivers must follow stricter speed limits, rules regarding rest breaks, and blood alcohol limits. Even minor traffic violations can carry serious consequences. Some common violations include:
Reckless driving and speeding violations – Driving aggressively or exceeding speed limits can result in license points, fines, and potential job consequences.
DUI/DWI for commercial drivers – For CDL holders, the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.04%, half of the 0.08% limit for regular drivers. Any alcohol or drug-related offense can lead to automatic disqualification from driving commercially.
Moving violations – Tailgating, unsafe lane changes, or failure to obey traffic signals can all impact your CDL standing.
Accidents and negligent driving – Even without DUI, causing an accident while operating a commercial vehicle can trigger severe penalties.
Because of these stricter rules, a single violation can jeopardize your career. That’s why acting quickly and consulting an experienced commercial driver lawyer is essential.
Traffic violations for CDL holders carry penalties beyond standard fines and points. Depending on the violation, consequences may include:
License suspension or revocation – Serious offenses, DUIs, or repeated violations can result in losing your commercial license for months or even permanently.
Job loss or employment impact – Many trucking companies or commercial employers require a clean driving record. Violations can affect current employment or future opportunities.
Increased insurance costs – Commercial insurance premiums may rise dramatically after violations or DUI convictions.
Points and record penalties – CDL violations are tracked closely, and points can impact both commercial and personal driving privileges.
Even minor violations can escalate if they involve a commercial vehicle, injuries, or property damage.
At Inch Law, we know how critical it is to protect your CDL and your career. Our attorneys review each case carefully and work to reduce the impact of violations on your commercial driving privileges. We provide guidance for:
Challenging evidence – Examining officer reports, speed readings, or procedural errors that may help reduce charges.
Negotiating reduced charges – In some cases, we may be able to have reckless driving or other violations reduced to lesser offenses.
DUI defense for CDL holders – We focus on minimizing the risk of license disqualification and mitigating long-term career consequences.
Court representation – Handling hearings so you may not have to appear in court, reducing stress and disruption to your schedule.
Our experience in Richmond and Virginia courts allows us to build strong defenses for commercial drivers, helping you maintain your CDL and protect your livelihood.
We approach every case with a personalized and client-focused philosophy. Legal problems are personal problems, and we treat them that way. Our team:
Understands commercial driving regulations – We know Virginia’s laws for CDL holders and how to navigate violations and DUI cases.
Protects your career and license – We prioritize strategies that minimize impact on employment and driving privileges.
Provides clear guidance – You’ll get straightforward advice and support throughout the legal process.
Delivers results – Our attorneys use their experience in Richmond and Henrico County courts to negotiate reduced penalties and protect your future.
Q: Can a DUI affect my CDL even if it’s a first offense?
Yes. Commercial drivers have a lower legal blood alcohol limit of 0.04%, and any alcohol or drug-related offense can lead to automatic disqualification.
Q: Will traffic tickets affect my CDL?
Yes. Moving violations, reckless driving, and speeding tickets can result in points, fines, and potential license suspension, which may impact your commercial driving privileges.
Q: How long does a CDL suspension last?
It depends on the violation. Serious offenses like DUI can lead to disqualification for months or permanently.
Q: Can I continue working while my case is pending?
In many cases, yes, but violations can restrict your ability to operate a commercial vehicle. Legal guidance can help minimize career disruption.
Q: Do I need a lawyer for a commercial driver traffic violation?
Yes. Because of the stricter rules for CDL holders and potential career impacts, having an experienced lawyer can make a significant difference in outcomes.
