A valid CDL is a requirement for many different types of positions throughout Virginia. However, a reckless driving conviction can result in a CDL suspension or disqualification.
When Your Regular Driver's License Is Suspended
A CDL is essentially a higher level version of a regular driver's license. You can't have a valid CDL unless you've already received a basic Class D Virginia driver's license for operating passenger vehicles.
Whenever your regular driver's license is suspended for reckless driving, you'll be unable to legally drive a commercial motor vehicle. The restricted license that some drivers are able to get for work-related purposes won't allow you to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
CDL Disqualifying Offenses
Virginia considers certain acts to be disqualifying offenses for a CDL. This includes:
- Reckless driving (in any vehicle)
- Speeding 15 mph or more above the speed limit (in any vehicle)
- Improper or erratic lane change (in any vehicle)
- Tailgating (in any vehicle)
- Moving violations related to a fatal crash (in any vehicle)
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a valid CDL
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle without the proper CDL class and/or endorsements
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a CDL in your possession
- Texting while driving a commercial motor vehicle
Two serious violations in a three-year period results in a 60-day CDL disqualification. Three or more serious violations in the same timeframe results in a 120-day CDL disqualification.
Your Employer May Have Special Rules
Aside from the penalties Virginia assesses for reckless driving, your employer might have rules about who is allowed to continuing operating vehicles in its fleet. Even if you were operating your personal vehicle at the time and have no previous disqualifying offenses on your record, your employer may choose to discipline you or terminate your employment because of a reckless driving conviction.
Charles V. Hardenbergh Can Help
If you depend on your CDL to earn a living, you need an aggressive defense against a reckless driving charge. Call to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation with Virginia attorney Charles V. Hardenbergh.
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