CDL Driver Traffic Violations: Overweight Traffic Ticket, Wheels Off Roadway, And Improper Lane Usage

The Port of Tacoma is one of the largest container ports in the United States, serving as a hub for products delivered across the country. With so many commercial drivers in the area, Tacoma law enforcement receives extensive training on commercial driver's license (CDL) driver traffic violations. Violations like overweight traffic tickets, wheels off the roadway, and improper lane usage are very common in Pierce County. However, just because Tacoma police are highly skilled at identifying CDL violations doesn't mean their citations were issued fairly. CDL violations often rely on subjective officer observations over hard facts.

They can jeopardize your job, so you must take them seriously and speak with a qualified Tacoma attorney who specializes in CDL infractions. We can review your case to make sure the evidence holds up. Then, we'll fight to reduce the charges and penalties to protect your career future. The best part is that you can speak with us for free. Call our Pierce County law offices now.

Washington State holds commercial drivers to much higher standards than other vehicle drivers when it comes to road safety. CDL holders must follow strict rules to ensure the safe operation of large vehicles, and a failure to do so can lead to fines, penalties, and even the suspension or revocation of your CDL. Below are some common CDL violations under Washington State law:

• RCW 46.25.020: Outlines the eligibility and requirements for obtaining and holding a CDL in Washington State. It includes health, age, and driving record requirements.
• RCW 46.44: Regulates weight limits for commercial vehicles. Overloading a vehicle can lead to penalties, including fines and impoundment, as it can damage roads and reduce vehicle safety.
• RCW 46.61.150: Prohibits driving a commercial vehicle off the roadway, which can be dangerous to other drivers and may lead to loss of control.
• RCW 46.61.120: Requires drivers to stay in their lane and follow lane-changing rules. CDL drivers who fail to do so can face penalties for endangering road safety, especially with large vehicles that need more space to maneuver.

CDL violations in Washington State come with serious consequences that will negatively impact your driving privileges and ability to earn a livelihood.

Whether you have a simple infraction or a more severe violation, the penalties for CDL traffic tickets are heavy. Here's what you could be facing in Tacoma:

• Fines: Most CDL violations result in fines that depend on the severity of your offense.
• CDL Suspension or Revocation: Severe violations, such as DUI or reckless driving, can result in temporary or permanent suspension of your CDL.
• Insurance Rates Increase: Violations can increase your commercial insurance rates significantly and make it more expensive to maintain coverage for your vehicles.
• Employment Consequences: A CDL violation on your record can affect your current or future job opportunities. Many Tacoma employers are hesitant to hire CDL drivers with a history of traffic infractions.

If you're facing a CDL violation, call our Tacoma legal offices for a free consultation. Our Pierce County CDL lawyers are here to help you protect your livelihood.

Commercial drivers are a huge part of Tacoma's economy. With the Port of Tacoma, I-5, and SR-509 running through the city, there's a steady flow of freight, delivery trucks, and service vehicles. Areas like the Port Industrial District, South Tacoma Way, and the Nalley Valley Viaduct see constant movement from semi-trucks and commercial haulers. Commercial zones around the Tacoma Mall and the Fife manufacturing corridor are also busy hubs for CDL drivers. Our CDL drivers keep goods moving, but they also face more risk for infractions due to the demands of the job and the complexity of Tacoma's road network.

Certain areas in Tacoma are particularly tricky for commercial drivers. The sharp curves near Schuster Parkway, unclear signage around Pacific Avenue and 72nd Street, and sudden lane shifts along River Road near Puyallup make it easy to miss a traffic rule without realizing it. Construction zones downtown or around Hilltop and the Stadium District often have temporary signs or narrowed lanes that aren't well marked. Add in Tacoma's winter weather or early morning fog, and even a skilled CDL driver can get cited for lane violations, failure to yield, or driving off the roadway. Fortunately, our attorneys know how to fight CDL violations and get you back on the road.

Tacoma has many commercial driving jobs. If you get a CDL ticket, your job could be at risk. The penalties could affect your driving record and result in the loss of your CDL. This is why you must speak to an attorney. Our CDL attorneys know how to fight these tickets, and we can help you keep your job. Call us now to talk to an attorney for free.

Facing CDL violations in Tacoma requires understanding local Washington State laws, Pierce County court procedures, and the potential legal consequences. Here's what you can expect if you're dealing with a CDL violation in Tacoma:

1. Issuance Of Your Citation: You'll receive a citation, either in person from a law enforcement officer or by mail if a traffic camera is involved. The ticket includes the details of your violation and the penalties you may face.
2. Go To Court: For most CDL violations in Tacoma, you will need to appear in court at the Tacoma Municipal Court located at 930 S. Tacoma Ave.
3. Court Procedure: Once in court, you'll either plead guilty, no contest, or not guilty. If you contest the violation, you'll have the opportunity to present evidence or argue for a reduced penalty.
4. Sentencing: Depending on your CDL violation, you may be required to pay a fine. Tacoma's court system may also impose additional fees or penalties, which can add up quickly. Violations in Tacoma, especially those involving serious infractions like DUI or reckless driving, could lead to suspension or revocation of your CDL. A CDL suspension or revocation will prevent you from being able to work as a commercial driver.

Having an experienced, local Tacoma attorney by your side can make all the difference. Contact our Pierce County CDL defense attorneys today for a free consultation to see how we can help you with your violation.

Commercial driving is a great career in Tacoma–until you get a CDL violation. One CDL ticket puts your route, paycheck, and even your license at risk. If you've been cited anywhere from the Port of Tacoma to South Tacoma Way, call our Pierce County lawyers now for a free consultation. Our local Tacoma defense attorneys know how to fight CDL violations. We can help you stay on the road, protect your license, and keep your job.