In order to drive an oversized vehicle or vehicle designed to transport more than 16 passengers in New Mexico, operators are required to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The reason large passenger vehicles and heavy, over-the-road vehicles require a CDL is that even small accidents can have devastating consequences. The responsibility of operating an over-sized or 16+ passenger vehicle is simply much greater than that of other vehicles, not to mention the fact that they are more difficult to operate.
The size of these vehicles is such that even an accident that has virtually no effect on the oversize vehicle can easily total a standard-size vehicle. So the laws pertaining to passenger and over-sized vehicles are different to those for the average car or truck.
If you are a CDL operator and you are in a trucking accident, it is important to know what your rights are. While held to a higher standard than other drivers, that does not mean you have different fundamental rights to any other driver. If you are concerned that you may be held liable for what occurred, it is important to find an attorney in Albuquerque who understands that you are held to a higher standard than other drivers and that you are much more susceptible to losing your license – hence, your livelihood – for even minor infractions.
Even if you believe you are at fault, it is important to get representation that can protect you from punitive measures that can mean the loss of a license.
It is critical that you find an attorney who is well versed in CDL traffic laws immediately. Unlike most other infractions of the law, traffic violations require you plead your case in front of two courts: traffic and criminal. The situation is tough because even if you are found innocent in criminal court, if the traffic court judge finds you guilty, the status of your CDL is still affected.
Do not wait if you are in a trucking accident, get representation immediately – contact Parnall Law Firm today.
