Do I Need a Lawyer for a Serious CDL Violation?

 Posted on March 13, 2025 in Traffic Violations

As a commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder, you are held to a higher standard than other drivers when it comes to traffic violations. If you are caught driving dangerously, the penalties can be severe. A conviction can put your CDL, job, and future earnings at risk.

If you have received a serious traffic violation ticket, it is important to understand your legal options. Fighting the ticket with the help of an experienced Illinois CDL violation defense attorney could save your license and protect your career.

What Are Serious Violations for CDL Drivers?

Serious violations for CDL drivers are traffic offenses that can result in license disqualification, even if they occur while driving a personal vehicle. Illinois follows federal guidelines for CDL regulations, meaning that accumulating serious violations within a short period can lead to temporary or permanent disqualification.

These violations include excessive speeding (15 mph or more over the limit), reckless driving, not yielding to a pedestrian who has the right of way, not stopping before a railroad crossing, and driving a commercial vehicle without the proper endorsements. Other violations, such as texting while driving a commercial vehicle or causing an accident due to negligence, can also be classified as serious.

Why You Should Fight a CDL Violation Ticket

Paying the ticket means pleading guilty, which could result in CDL disqualification and potential job loss. A single serious traffic violation can put your career at risk, and multiple offenses within a short period could result in a lengthy disqualification.

Any violation of 15 miles per hour or more over the speed limit is considered a serious traffic violation under federal CDL laws. Two serious violations within three years result in a 60-day CDL disqualification, while three serious violations within three years lead to a 120-day disqualification. A conviction can also cause insurance rates to increase dramatically, making it more expensive to continue working in the trucking industry.

Fighting the ticket gives you a chance to avoid points on your record, reduce fines and penalties, and protect your CDL. Additionally, it helps prevent increases in insurance rates that could make driving commercially unaffordable.

How a Lawyer Can Help CDL Drivers Who Get Tickets 

An experienced CDL violation defense attorney can challenge radar or laser evidence, negotiate for reduced charges that do not count as a serious violation, and fight for a dismissal if the ticket was improperly issued or lacks evidence. The goal is to protect your CDL from disqualification so that you can continue working and avoid the financial hardships that come with losing your license.

Get a Free Consultation from a Will County, IL CDL Defense Lawyer

A ticket for a serious violation is more than just a fine — it is a serious threat to your CDL and livelihood. If you have received a ticket for a serious traffic violation, do not wait to get legal help. Contact Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. at 815-740-4025 for a free consultation with a Grundy County, IL CDL violation defense attorney who can fight for your rights, protect your license, and help you keep your job.