Chicago, IL CDL Violation Attorney

Dedicated Lawyer Defending Commercial Drivers Against Traffic Violations in Chicago, Illinois

For commercial drivers, a traffic violation can be much more serious than a simple ticket and a fine. These violations can threaten a person's income and career. Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders are held to higher standards than other drivers, and certain violations can result in fines, license suspensions, or even the disqualification of a CDL, making it impossible to work in the trucking or transportation industry.

At Miranda Law Office, LTD, we work with commercial drivers who are facing traffic charges in Chicago and Cook County. We understand the seriousness of these allegations, and we work with clients to help protect their licenses and careers. Miranda Law Office, LTD provides skilled legal representation for CDL holders facing traffic violations. We have 20+ years of experience in cases involving criminal charges and traffic offenses, and we know how to fight CDL violations effectively. Whether you speak English or Spanish, we can help you take steps to resolve your case successfully.

How Traffic Violations Affect Commercial Drivers

There are a wide variety of strict rules that apply to drivers of commercial vehicles. Even minor offenses can have serious consequences for CDL holders. Even if traffic violations do not directly affect a CDL, they will add points to a person's driving record, and multiple violations could lead to the suspension of a driver's license.

More serious violations can result in the disqualification of a CDL, preventing a person from maintaining employment. A driver may face termination by an employer who has a zero-tolerance policy for certain violations, and even after getting their license back, they may face difficulty finding employment. Because of these high stakes, CDL holders must approach every traffic violation carefully and consider the long-term impact on their ability to drive commercially.

Types of CDL Violations

Traffic violations that could result in the loss of a CDL fall into two categories:

Serious Traffic Violations

Certain violations are considered to be serious enough to indicate that a commercial driver may put others at risk of harm while driving. If a commercial driver is convicted of multiple violations, they may face a short-term disqualification of their CDL. Two violations within a three-year period will result in a 60-day disqualification, while three violations will result in a 120-day disqualification.

Serious violations may be committed in either a commercial vehicle or another type of vehicle, and they include:

• Speeding by at least 15 miles per hour
• Improper lane changes
• Tailgating behind another vehicle
• Texting or using a handheld cell phone while driving
• Reckless driving

Major Offenses

Certain offenses are considered to be serious enough that they will result in a CDL disqualification for a single offense. In most cases, a conviction for one of these offenses will cause a driver's CDL to be disqualified for one year, and a second offense will result in a lifetime disqualification. Major offenses include:

• DUI committed while driving either a commercial vehicle or other vehicle
• Using a commercial vehicle or any other vehicle while committing a felony offense
• Driving a commercial vehicle negligently and causing an accident that led to someone's death
• Leaving the scene of an accident while driving a commercial vehicle

Legal Help for CDL Holders in Chicago

Unlike non-commercial drivers, CDL holders usually will not be eligible for court supervision when they are convicted of traffic offenses. Even if an offense is not classified as a serious violation or a major offense, a conviction could lead to penalties that could affect a person's driver's license. They may face increased insurance rates, the potential loss of employment, or other consequences.

Fortunately, being charged with a traffic violation does not have to mean the end of your commercial driving career. With legal help from a skilled attorney, you can take steps to defend against these violations and avoid ongoing consequences. At Miranda Law Office, LTD, we can work with you to fight traffic tickets, challenge license disqualifications, and protect your ability to work.

Our lawyer may be able to help with your case by:

• Challenging tickets and charges in court to help you avoid a conviction.
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges that will not impact your CDL.
• Providing representation in administrative hearings before the Illinois Secretary of State to contest a CDL suspension or disqualification.

With years of experience as a former Cook County prosecutor, Attorney Miranda understands how traffic charges and CDL violations are prosecuted. He will use this knowledge to craft effective defense strategies that will minimize your penalties and make sure you can continue working as a commercial driver.

Contact Our Chicago, Illinois CDL Traffic Violation Defense Lawyer

At Miranda Law Office, LTD, we can help you defend against traffic violations as a CDL holder and protect against long-term penalties. We can provide guidance on the best steps to take during your case, and we will advocate for your interests while fighting to help you keep your commercial driver's license. Contact our Chicago CDL violation defense attorney today at 773-588-3822 and set up a consultation.