What are Truck Driver Violations

If you’re pursuing your CDL, you may ask yourself, “What are truck driver violations?” Many things are truck driver violations, but as long as you ensure you’re aware of what they are, it’s easy not to violate them. Truck driver violations are any actions against traffic laws or regulations while operating a commercial vehicle. These violations can range from minor infractions, such as speeding or failing to signal before changing lanes, to more serious offenses, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Common Truck Driver Violations

If you’re unsure what truck driver violations are, you may make them without knowing. Make sure to stay aware of all potential truck driver violations so that you can keep the roads safe as well as yourself. 

Hours of Service and Vehicle Violations 

One common truck driver violation is failing to follow hours of service regulations. Hours of service regulations are in place to ensure that truck drivers get enough rest and do not drive for extended periods, which can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of accidents.  Driving while overly tired is the equivalent of driving while intoxicated. These regulations outline the maximum number of hours a truck driver can work and drive in a day and the minimum amount of rest time that must be taken between shifts.

Another truck driver violation is failing to maintain the vehicle properly. Truck drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are in good condition and safe to operate. This includes conducting regular inspections, repairs, and documentation of maintenance. Failure to properly maintain the vehicle can cause accidents and put other drivers at risk.

Federal Regulation Violations

Speeding is also a common violation among truck drivers. Commercial vehicles are often larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, which means they require more time and distance to come to a stop. As a result, speeding increases the risk of accidents, particularly on highways and busy roads, and can result in fines and points on a truck driver’s license.

Other truck driver violations include failing to use turn signals, failing to check blind spots before changing lanes, and improper lane changes. These actions can all increase the risk of accidents, as other drivers may not be aware of the truck’s movements.

Truck drivers must also follow weight and size restrictions when operating their vehicles. These restrictions vary state-to-state, if you’re an OTR driver, make sure you know the rules for the states you’re traveling to.  This includes ensuring the load is properly secured and does not exceed the maximum weight allowed for the vehicle. Failure to follow these restrictions can result in fines and potential damage to the vehicle or roadway.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious violation that can have severe consequences, including fines, loss of license, and even jail time for up to a year if it’s your first offense. Jail time possibilities increase if you’re a repeat offender and it’s more than likely that your CDL will be suspended. Therefore, truck drivers need to be aware of the risks associated with driving while impaired and to make the responsible decision to refrain from doing so.

In addition to following traffic laws and regulations, truck drivers must also adhere to federal safety regulations. This includes wearing a seatbelt while driving, carrying proper documentation and licensing, and adequately securing cargo. Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines and points on a truck driver’s license.

Serious Truck Driver Violations

All truck driver violations should be taken seriously. However, these violations may disqualify your CDL if you are a repeat offender. 

Truck drivers are required to follow weight and size restrictions. This includes making sure the load is properly secured and not exceeding the maximum weight allowed for the vehicle. You could receive a serious fine or jail time if your truck is overweight. 

Additionally, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious violation that can have the same severity of consequences, including fines, loss of license, and even jail time. Therefore, truck drivers need to be aware of what truck driver violations are while impaired and make the responsible decision to refrain from doing so.

If a driver accumulates too many violations, they may face consequences such as fines, points on their license, and potentially even the loss of their CDL. The specific consequences will depend on the type and number of violations and the laws and regulations in the state where the violations occurred.

If a truck driver receives multiple speeding tickets within a specific period, they may face fines and points on their license. Each state’s point system varies, and some states are more lenient than others; however, an accumulation of points does not look good for you and can lead to higher insurance premiums and jeopardize your trucking career.  

If you accumulate too many points, you may be required to attend a defensive driving course or have your license suspended. Additionally, the trucking company that employs you may face the consequences of hiring an individual with a history of violations.

Avoid Truck Driver Violations with TDI

It is vital for truck drivers to be aware of the consequences of violating traffic laws and regulations and to take steps to avoid accumulating too many violations. This includes following all traffic laws and regulations, maintaining a safe and well-maintained vehicle, and taking breaks as needed to avoid fatigue. By following these guidelines, truck drivers can help ensure the safety of themselves and other road users, and avoid the negative consequences of accumulating too many violations.

Now that you don’t have to wonder, “what are truck driver violations?” you can get your CDL and learn everything you need to know about road safety. When you get an education with TDI, we teach you all the road rules to ensure your safety and others on the road’s safety are guaranteed. Visit us at one of our 11 locations or contact us to learn more about getting your CDL.