In Oklahoma, as in the rest of the United States, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders are subject to strict regulations due to the significant responsibilities associated with their role. Serious traffic violations may result in temporary or permanent disqualification from holding a CDL.
While the specifics may vary somewhat from state to state, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules apply across the country. According to these regulations, a “serious traffic violation” includes:
- Excessive speeding, typically defined as 15 mph or more over the posted limit.
- Reckless driving.
- Improper or erratic lane changes.
- Following too closely behind another vehicle.
- Operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) without obtaining a CDL, without having your CDL in your possession, or without the proper CDL endorsement for the type of vehicle being operated.
- Traffic offenses committed in a CMV in connection with fatal traffic accidents.
- Driving a CMV without a CDL.
- Driving a CMV without a CDL in the driver’s possession.
- Driving a CMV without the proper class of CDL and/or endorsements for the specific vehicle group being operated or for the passengers or type of cargo being transported.
The penalties for these violations vary, but typically:
- For two serious traffic violations within a three-year period, a driver faces a minimum 60-day disqualification.
- For three or more serious traffic violations within a three-year period, a driver faces a minimum 120-day disqualification.
Note that these are just some of the serious traffic offenses that can lead to disqualification. More serious offenses, like driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or committing a felony using a vehicle, can lead to longer disqualifications or even permanent loss of a CDL.
Low-cost Consultation: CDL Attorney In Cherokee County
For a low-cost consultation with a CDL attorney in Cherokee County, call Wirth Law Office – Tahlequah at 918-458-2677 or toll free at 1-888-447-7262.
Or, if you prefer e-mail, you may enter a legal question in the form at the top right of this page. Whatever method you prefer, a CDL lawyer in Oklahoma will contact you as soon as possible.
