The penalties for driving an overweight truck in California can be crippling. Fines can run extremely high, especially once you’re over 4,500 pounds overweight. At 20,000 pounds per axle or 10,500 pounds per wheel, the limits can be a problem for some loads. Paying close attention to weight limits is critically important. Commercial truck drivers are legally required to stop at weigh stations operated by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Even U-Haul or Ryder trucks may need to comply, because this rule covers any trucks being used to transport property. If you have any doubts about your status, we recommend stopping to be weighed. If you take a chance, pass a weigh station, and are pulled over later by the CHP for failing to stop, you risk being charged with a misdemeanor offense, in addition to possible penalties for violating weight limits. If you are cited for weight violations, don’t ignore the ticket or put off paying the fine. Either of these options could lead to a stiff fine or even suspension of your commercial driver’s license. Also, simply paying the ticket will not make it go away. Courts view this as an admission of guilt, which can have devastating consequences for your career as a professional driver. A better path is to take steps to avoid problems. Caltrans can issue special single-trip or annual permits to operate overweight vehicles. While fleet operators typically manage these permits for large organizations, independent owner-operators and small trucking firms also can secure permits in advance as needed. Drivers entering California on I-80 from Nevada can also take precautions by using public weigh stations on the Nevada side of the border. Users might be required to pay a small fee, but the penalties for exceeding California’s strict weight limits after crossing the border could be far worse. Our experienced, knowledgeable traffic ticket attorneys have more than three decades of experience defending commercial drivers on weight limit violations and other charges. If you are facing a citation for an overweight truck, reach out to us today at 661-349-9300 for a free consultation. We will be glad to help you develop a strategy for defending against license suspension, points on your commercial license, and other penalties. HEAVY TRUCK, HEFTY FINE Overweight in Cali? It Could Cost You Thousands
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