Being a commercial truck driver can come with some serious potential complications and risks. Commercial truck drivers are asked to drive day and night, through inclement weather, in vehicles that can weigh up to 30 times as much as standard motor vehicle collisions. Recognizing the inherent risks of commercial truck driving, it should come as no surprise that law enforcement officials are on the lookout for drivers violating commercial trucking laws. Unfortunately, many truck drivers are pressured by their employers to violate these mandates. If you have been charged with a CDL violation, it is time to seek out the assistance of a knowledgeable legal professional.
Experiencing Employer Pressure and Negligence in the Trucking Industry
While many CDL violations, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and reckless driving, are directly the fault of the driver, many other violations can be caused by employer negligence or recklessness. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for commercial trucking companies to pressure their employees into acting negligently, in order to expedite the shipping process. One common example of this is companies asking their drivers to falsify their driving logs in order to drive for more consecutive hours than is legally allowed. Falsifying an electronic driving device can potentially result in a CDL suspension or permanent revocation, as well as possible jail time.
In other instances, employers will overload a vehicle’s cargo. If you are aware of the overweight vehicle and were pressured to avoid weigh-in stations, you should alert your attorney right away. If you were unaware that the vehicle was overweight, your attorney can work to prove that you were not acting in a negligent manner. Other examples of employer negligence include pressuring a driver to drive on high-grade roads that would violate grade restrictions and providing a driver with an improperly maintained vehicle.
Contact a Naperville CDL Violation Attorney
A CDL violation can come with significant fines, loss of employment, and loss of your commercial driver’s license. If you have been charged with a CDL violation, potential ramifications could impact your livelihood. Attorney Patricia Magaña has years of experience helping clients fight against CDL violations. If your violation was the result of employer negligence or pressure, you need an attorney that will fight on your behalf. To schedule a complimentary initial consultation with a knowledgeable Will County criminal defense attorney, contact us today at 630-448-2001.
Source:
https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/large-trucks