Understanding the Types of Traffic Violations: What Truck Drivers Need to Know 

As a truck driver, navigating the open road comes with its own set of challenges, including understanding the various traffic violations you might encounter. Traffic violations can lead to hefty fines, points on your driving record and even the risk of losing your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This blog post will break down the common types of traffic violations specifically relevant to truck drivers, helping you stay informed and safe on the road. 

Moving Violations 

Moving violations are offenses committed while the vehicle is in motion. For truck drivers, these can include: 

• Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limit is one of the most common violations. It’s crucial to be aware of speed limits that may vary for commercial vehicles. 
• Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device: Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs can lead to serious accidents, and law enforcement is vigilant about enforcing these rules for large trucks. 
• Improper Lane Changes: Changing lanes without signaling or cutting off other vehicles can result in a ticket, especially in areas with heavy traffic. 

Non-Moving Violations 

Non-moving violations are offenses that occur while the vehicle is stationary or parked. These can include: 

• Parking Violations: Truck drivers must adhere to specific parking regulations, especially in urban environments where large vehicles may not be allowed to park in certain areas. 
• Equipment Violations: Failing to maintain necessary equipment, such as brake lights, turn signals, and tires, can result in citations during inspections. 

Weight Violations 

Given the size and weight of commercial vehicles, weight violations are a significant concern: 

• Overweight Violations: Exceeding the weight limits established by the Department of Transportation can lead to fines and penalties. Understanding the weight limits for your vehicle type and load is essential. 
• Violation of Load Securement Regulations: Loads must be properly secured to prevent shifting during transit. Failing to do so can result in citations, especially during inspections. 

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) 

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense for any driver, but the consequences are particularly severe for truck drivers: 

• DUI Penalties: Truck drivers caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher face immediate penalties, including suspension of their CDL. 

Hours of Service Violations 

Truck drivers are subject to regulations regarding how long they can drive without taking a break. Violations of these regulations can lead to: 

• Logbook Violations: Failing to record driving hours or exceeding maximum driving limits accurately can result in fines and points against your CDL. 
• Rest Break Violations: Not adhering to mandatory rest breaks can lead to penalties that affect your driving record and employment. 

Distracted Driving 

Distracted driving is a growing concern on the roads. For truck drivers, this includes: 

• Use of Mobile Devices: Texting or using a phone while driving is illegal and can lead to serious accidents. Truck drivers must use hands-free devices or pull over safely if they need to make a call. 

Understanding the various types of traffic violations is crucial for truck drivers to maintain their driving privileges and ensure safety on the roads. By being aware of these potential infractions and adhering to regulations, you can protect yourself from fines, points on your record and the risk of losing your CDL. Stay informed about the rules specific to your region and be proactive in maintaining your vehicle and driving habits. Safe driving benefits you and ensures the safety of all drivers on the road. 

If you get a ticket, TVC Pro-Driver members have $0 out-of-pocket access* to more than 10,000 top-rated attorneys in all 50 states and Canada. Our network of provider attorneys has worked more than 1 million citations for TVC Pro-Driver members. Our attorneys are experienced with CDL cases, and many of them have been part of our network for 35 years. Also, attorneys handle all cases in the court of original jurisdiction. Not a member? Sign up today.  

*Exclusions and pre-existing ticket fees may apply. See membership agreement for specifics.