Common CDL Citations in Ohio
What are the most common CDL citations in Ohio and what can be done to defend against them?
As a commercial truck driver, your livelihood depends on maintaining a clean driving record and keeping your CDL in good standing. But traffic violations in Ohio can quickly put both at risk—especially if you’re cited for offenses considered serious under state and federal regulations.
At Brian C. Morrissey, Attorney at Law, we’ve helped countless CDL holders fight traffic tickets that threaten their careers. In this post, we break down the most common violations Ohio truckers face, the penalties involved, and what you can do to protect your CDL.
1. Speeding – Especially 15 MPH Over the Limit
Speeding is one of the most frequently issued citations for commercial drivers—and also one of the most dangerous. Under FMCSA guidelines, driving 15 mph or more over the posted limit is a serious traffic violation.
🔺 Penalty: Two or more serious violations within 3 years = 60-day disqualification
🚫 Some jurisdictions treat these tickets harshly, particularly in construction zones or school zones.
2. Following Too Closely
Tailgating is considered reckless behavior, especially when it involves an 80,000-pound vehicle. Ohio law allows for aggressive penalties in these cases, and FMCSA also flags this as a serious offense.
🔺 Penalty: CSA score increase, potential disqualification
3. Unsafe Lane Changes or Improper Passing
Improper lane usage is another serious violation under federal and Ohio law. This can include weaving between lanes, failing to signal, or not checking blind spots before merging.
🔺 Penalty: Can trigger employer discipline and points on your CDL
4. Logbook and HOS (Hours of Service) Violations
Failing to comply with hours-of-service regulations is a big red flag during roadside inspections and weigh station checks. Even a single logbook error can result in citations and DOT audits.
🔺 Penalty: Fines, out-of-service orders, and CSA score penalties
5. Overweight or Oversize Load Violations
Ohio has strict weight limits for commercial vehicles, and law enforcement officers at weigh stations are vigilant. If you're caught with an overweight load, you could face significant fines and be forced to offload cargo.
🔺 Penalty: Civil penalties, fines, and possible equipment impoundment
6. Failure to Obey Traffic Control Devices
Running a red light, ignoring a stop sign, or failing to follow posted road restrictions can be interpreted as reckless or negligent driving—especially for CDL holders.
🔺 Penalty: CDL points, court costs, insurance hikes
7. Driving Without a Valid Medical Card or Expired CDL
Operating without proper medical certification or letting your CDL lapse—even unintentionally—can lead to immediate penalties, including loss of commercial driving privileges.
🔺 Penalty: License suspension, employer termination, FMCSA notification
How These Violations Affect Your CDL and Career
Most commercial drivers assume a single ticket isn’t a big deal. But for truckers, every violation counts:
- Increased CSA score
- Risk of job loss
- Higher insurance premiums
- Loss of contracts or loads
- Potential CDL disqualification
You Have the Right to Fight Back
Even if you believe you’re guilty, you don’t have to simply pay the fine and accept the consequences. Many violations can be reduced, amended, or even dismissed with the help of an experienced CDL ticket defense attorney.
At Brian C. Morrissey, Attorney at Law, we help truckers navigate the court system, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect their commercial driving privileges.
Truckers Cited in Toledo? We Can Help.
Whether you were stopped in Lucas County, Wood County, Fulton County, or elsewhere in Northwest Ohio, we offer legal defense tailored to commercial drivers and the unique risks they face.
Protect Your CDL with a Toledo Traffic Ticket Attorney
Don’t let a single traffic stop derail your career. Contact Brian C. Morrissey, Attorney at Law for experienced, strategic legal representation focused on CDL defense.
📍 Office: Toledo, Ohio
📞 Call: 419-830-7441
🌐 Visit: www.brianmorrisseylaw.com
📧 Email: brian@brianmorrisseylaw.com
