If you’re a commercial driver in California, you’re likely aware that different speed limits apply to trucks and other large vehicles. California Vehicle Code Section 22406 sets specific speed restrictions for various types of vehicles, including trucks, buses, and vehicles towing trailers.
The maximum speed limit for vehicles covered by this law is 55 MPH on all roads. If you break this speed limit, you may face significant penalties, especially for commercial drivers. Your license could be suspended, which could threaten your job.
At Simmrin Law Group, our experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers can assist you if you’ve received a traffic ticket for breaking this law. If you need to go to trial to defend yourself, we’re not afraid to help you. We’re ready to handle any case in any court.
Understanding California Vehicle Code 22406
CA VEH Section 22406 mandates that certain vehicles cannot exceed 55 mph on California highways, regardless of posted speed limits. The vehicles affected include:
- Motor trucks or truck tractors with three or more axles
- Any motor truck or truck tractor towing another vehicle
- Passenger vehicles or buses towing another vehicle
- School buses carrying pupils
- Farm labor vehicles transporting passengers
- Vehicles transporting explosives
- Trailer buses
The reason for the restricted speed limits is safety. All of these are larger vehicles that will need more time and space to stop safely. Capping the speed limit at 55 lets these drivers react to hazards in time.
If they were to go faster, the vehicle’s momentum might be too great to change before a crash happened. The results would be catastrophic for all of the vehicle types listed in this law.
For a free legal consultation with a truck speeding over 55 mph lawyer serving California, call (310) 896-2723
Consequences of Violating the 55 MPH Limit
If you’re caught driving one of these vehicles over 55 mph, you may face:
- Significant fines, which increase with higher speeds
- Points on your driving record
- Potential suspension of your commercial driver’s license (CDL), depending on how many points you have on your record.
- Increased insurance premiums
For commercial drivers, a 22406 violation can have serious repercussions on your employment:
- Your employer will find out about the violation and may discipline or terminate your employment.
- It will affect your safety record and future job prospects
- Violations could lead to CDL suspension or revocation, which will lock you out of the trucking industry.
Appearing in Court
Additionally, you must appear in traffic court to pay your fines. If you do not appear in court for your California speeding ticket, you’ll be charged with failure to appear. This can be charged as a misdemeanor on your criminal record.
However, your traffic lawyer may be allowed to appear in court in your place. This can keep you from needing to take a day off to pay your traffic ticket. Hiring a lawyer may give you greater flexibility on how to handle your ticket.
California Truck Speeding Over 55 MPH Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Defenses Against Charges of Speeding Over 55 MPH in a Truck
If you’ve been cited for violating this law, possible defenses might include:
- Speedometer malfunction: Your vehicle’s speedometer was inaccurate.
- Emergency: You had to speed due to a legitimate emergency.
- Radar gun error: The officer’s speed detection equipment was faulty or improperly used.
- Mistaken vehicle classification: Your vehicle doesn’t fall under the categories specified in 22406.
Deciding which defense is best is the job of your traffic lawyer. A traffic lawyer will try to help you beat your charges or reduce the penalty as much as possible. Without one, you may be defenseless against the citation and face full penalties.
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When You Need a Lawyer
While not every traffic citation requires legal representation, there are several situations where consulting with one can be crucial:
- Potential Impact on Your CDL: If you’re a commercial driver, even a single violation can jeopardize your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). An attorney can help protect your livelihood.
- Multiple Violations: If you’re facing multiple citations or have a history of violations, the cumulative effect could lead to license suspension. A lawyer can help mitigate these consequences.
- Incorrect Citation: If you believe you were wrongly cited (e.g., your vehicle doesn’t fall under 22406, or you weren’t exceeding 55 mph), an attorney can help challenge the citation.
- Aggravating Circumstances: If there were additional factors involved (like adverse weather conditions or mechanical issues), a lawyer can help present these mitigating circumstances.
- Employment Consequences: If a violation could result in job loss or disciplinary action from your employer, legal representation becomes crucial.
- Insurance Rate Increases: A skilled attorney may be able to resolve your case in a way that minimizes impact on your insurance premiums.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, an attorney may be able to negotiate a plea to a lesser offense, reducing fines and minimizing the impact on your record.
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Contact the Simmrin Law Group for Help
At Simmrin Law Group, our approach to cases involving California Vehicle Code Section 22406 includes a thorough case review, strategic defense planning, court representation, and much more. We will do our best to defend you against the charges you’re facing.
Don’t let a speeding citation jeopardize your career or driving record. Simmrin Law Group can provide the experienced legal representation you need. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s work together to protect your rights and your future on the road.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form