A traffic ticket on U.S. Highway 70 in Eastern North Carolina isn’t just a minor inconvenience for commercial drivers. It can lead to immediate license suspension, disqualification, and even job loss. With increased enforcement and rising CDL-related citations along this major freight corridor, drivers must act quickly to protect their livelihood. If you’ve received a ticket near New Bern, NC, understanding your legal options is critical. This guide from our New Bern traffic violation lawyers explains the consequences of a CDL violation on Hwy 70 and how legal counsel can help you keep your license and your career on track.
Why U.S. Hwy 70 Is a High-Risk Zone for CDL Holders
U.S. Highway 70 is one of Eastern North Carolina’s most heavily traveled freight routes, connecting ports, distribution centers, and key commercial hubs. As commercial traffic has grown, so has law enforcement activity.
This corridor, especially near New Bern, sees a high volume of patrols targeting speeding, lane violations, and other infractions. A single citation, depending on the offense, can quickly escalate into a license suspension or disqualification, even before a court date.
For drivers who rely on Hwy 70 daily, understanding the risks and acting quickly after a ticket is essential to staying on the road.
What Violations Can Lead to CDL Disqualification?
Not all traffic tickets carry the same weight for commercial drivers. Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules, certain violations can trigger automatic CDL disqualification, even for a first offense.
These include:
- Speeding 15 mph or more over the posted limit
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Speeding and reckless driving are common causes of CDL disqualifications. Many drivers mistakenly believe that paying a fine resolves the issue. In reality, paying a ticket is treated as a conviction, which can lead directly to disqualification.
Another common misconception is that minor speeding violations won’t affect a CDL. But if the speed exceeds the limit by 15 mph or more, it qualifies as a serious offense under FMCSA rules. CDL holders are held to stricter standards than non-commercial drivers, and the consequences are far more severe.
Immediate Steps to Take After Receiving a Ticket
If you receive a CDL ticket on U.S. Hwy 70, the clock starts ticking. FMCSA regulations require you to report a conviction for any traffic violation to your employer within 30 days. Failing to do so can result in additional penalties, including disqualification.
To protect your license and job, take these steps immediately:
- Notify your employer of the violation within the required timeframe
- Consult a CDL defense attorney as soon as possible
- Avoid paying the ticket without legal advice
An experienced attorney can help you explore options such as:
- Contesting the citation in court
- Negotiating to amend the charge to a non-disqualifying offense
- Presenting mitigating factors, such as a clean driving record or procedural errors
Legal representation is especially important in New Bern and Craven County, where courts are increasingly strict with CDL violations on Hwy 70.
Long-Term Consequences of a CDL Suspension
A CDL suspension doesn’t just sideline you temporarily. It can derail your entire career. Many employers terminate drivers who lose their commercial license, and finding new work with a suspended or disqualified CDL can be extremely difficult.
Additional consequences include:
- Your violation being reported to national driver databases
- Higher insurance premiums
- Reduced eligibility for future driving jobs
Judges in North Carolina have shown a growing tendency to impose immediate suspensions for serious offenses, even for first-time violations. Without legal intervention, a single ticket can lead to long-term financial and professional setbacks.
Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help you avoid or reduce these penalties and protect your ability to earn a living.
How Greene, Wilson, Styron & Thomas Can Help
At Summit Law Group – Greene, Wilson, Styron & Thomas, we understand the high stakes for commercial drivers in Eastern North Carolina. Our attorneys have deep experience with traffic courts in New Bern and Craven County and are familiar with the enforcement patterns along U.S. Hwy 70.
We offer tailored legal strategies to:
- Challenge or amend CDL-related charges
- Guide you through DMV hearings and employer reporting
- Minimize the risk of suspension or disqualification
Our goal is to help you stay on the road and protect your career. We’ve helped many drivers reduce or dismiss charges that could have otherwise ended their employment.
Protect Your CDL and Your Future with Help from a New Bern Traffic Attorney
If you’re a commercial driver who received a ticket on U.S. Hwy 70, don’t risk your livelihood by handling it alone. The attorneys at Summit Law Group – Greene, Wilson, Styron & Thomas understand the high stakes and are ready to help you fight for your license. Contact our New Bern office today for a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your CDL and your career.