3 Steps to Follow After You Are Stopped in Maryland as an Out-Of-State Commercial Truck Driver

Like other drivers on the road, out-of-state commercial truck drivers are expected to adhere to local and state laws. Although being pulled over can be nerve-racking, it is essential that you are prepared to present necessary documents to police officers when requested, comply with all directions, and display professionalism at all times during a traffic stop.

If you have been cited for a moving violation while driving a commercial truck in Maryland, The Law Office of Hillel Traub is here to help protect your CDL license and fight the charges against you. We understand that a traffic ticket conviction can impact your ability to obtain and maintain employment. As a successful litigator with over 30 years of experience, attorney Hillel Traub will help guide you through your best legal options to resolve your traffic violation and protect your driving record.

3 Steps to Follow After You Are Stopped in Maryland as an Out-Of-State Commercial Truck Driver

To ease the process of being stopped in Maryland as an out-of-state commercial truck driver, ensure you take the following steps:

1. Be Prepared to Provide Documents

After you are pulled over, you may be asked to present the following documents:

  • CDL license
  • Registration
  • Logbook
  • Bill of lading
  • Other required permits or documentation

Only provide documents that the officer requests. It’s essential that you prepare your documents before being pulled over so that they are within reach and you know where they are located. Searching for your documents could cause the officer to question their safety and complicate or escalate the traffic stop.

2. Comply With Directions

Complying with all directions is important when you are pulled over as an out-of-state commercial driver. For instance, do not unbuckle your seatbelt to avoid additional violations that the officer may ticket you for. If the officer asks you a question, politely but briefly answer. Don’t say anything that may be taken as an admission of guilt. Lastly, comply with any inspection check-ups during your traffic stop so you can get back on the road faster.

3. Display Professionalism

When you are pulled over as an out-of-state truck driver, you are expected to display professionalism and courtesy to a police officer that is solely doing their job to maintain road safety. If the officer is acting unprofessionally, it is best to avoid reacting in the situation as it may keep you roadside longer. If necessary, you may report the officer later for their misconduct.

Common Out-of-State Commercial Truck Driver Violations

Maryland police officers may cite any driver for a moving violation, which is a driving violation while the vehicle is in motion. Some moving violations are more serious than others. However, even minor traffic violations can still lead to the accumulation of points against your driver’s license. If you have over eight points on your driving record within two years, it may lead to license suspension.

The most common out-of-state commercial truck driver violations include the following:

  • Following too close
  • Speeding
  • Lane deviations
  • Inattentiveness
  • Improper load securement
  • Cell phone usage
  • Lighting violations
  • Improper registration display
  • Your truck being over the weight limits
  • Failure to obey traffic signs or signals

Without the help of an experienced Maryland lawyer, you may lose your CDL license for a designated period of time or life, depending on your driving record or violation, which may seriously affect your livelihood.

Speak With the Experienced Maryland Truck Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub

If you are stopped in Maryland as an out-of-state commercial truck driver, it is essential that you are prepared with the required documentation, comply with all requests, and act professionally so that you are able to promptly continue to your destination. If you are cited for a moving violation, The Law Office of Hillel Traub is here to help you protect your CDL and livelihood by fighting the charges against you. Attorney Hillel Traub was a former lawyer with the MVA and knows how to protect your rights.

For a complimentary assessment of your claim, call (410) 580-1100 or fill out our contact form.

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