All commercial truck drivers in the US are required to possess what is called a CDL or commercial driver license. The federal government regulates CDL holders through commercial motor vehicle operator regulations or CMV.

In Indiana, CMV operator regulations are standardized through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles BMV using a combination of both state and federal law. In a complex field such as this, one would be wise to hire an Indiana Traffic Lawyer specializing in representing those possessing CDL licenses.

Some Indiana traffic violations could result in a suspended, disqualified or revoked driver license and when this happens a CDL holder cannot legally operate a commercial motor vehicle CMV. There are many disqualifying and suspendable offenses a CDL holder must always look out for as most will have a negative impact on the holder’s status. Some examples of disqualifying major offenses are below:

  • Alcohol and drug related offenses including: OVWI, DUI, Having a blood alcohol concentration BAC of 0.04% or higher, Refusing implied consent
  • Railroad highway grad crossing offenses RRHGC
  • Violating out of service orders OOSO
  • Leaving the scene of an accident
  • Using a CMV to commit a felony, including those involved in controlled substances
  • Causing death due to negligent commercial motor vehicle operation
  • Operating a CMV while suspended, disqualified or revoked CDL

The penalties for the above major violations in Indiana are as follows:

  • The first violation will amount to a 1 year disqualification and possible $5,000.00 fine
  • If transporting hazardous materials combined with any first offense, 3 year disqualification
  • The second violation will amount to a lifetime disqualification

In addition to the major offenses listed above, federal and Indiana state law considers the following serious traffic violations:

  • Following too closely
  • Improper lane change
  • Reckless driving or excessive speeding
  • Operating a commercial motor vehicle w/out a CDL or w/out a CDL on person
  • Violating any traffic law resulting in death

The penalties for the above serious traffic violations are as follows:

  • The first violation is no disqualification
  • The second violation w/in three years is a sixty day disqualification
  • The third violation w/in three years is a one hundred twenty day disqualification

What many CDL holders may not realize is that one may become disqualified from committing some of the infractions and offenses above even if they were not operating a commercial motor vehicle at the time of offense. If you or someone you know has been charged with a traffic offense or infraction that you believe may disqualify your CDL, contact an Indiana Traffic Lawyer today. Kevin Potts, Indiana Traffic Lawyer, understands the importance of CDL holders staying valid in order to continue to support their families and careers. If you have been charged with any of the offenses listed above, contact Potts Law LLC today for your free consultation at 317-951-0087 or fill out the convenient online form.