CA Vehicle Code 35551(a) defines overweight vehicle violations in California. If you break this rule, you face serious penalties. Fortunately, legal help is available to those who want to fight back against a vehicle code violation.
Work with a lawyer with driving under the influence (DUI) case experience who is familiar with your case. At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we have decades of experience connecting clients with skilled legal counsel in the aftermath of an overweight vehicle violation and a driving under the influence charge.
Meet with us and get in touch with an attorney to get answers to questions you have about California’s vehicle codes.
Examples of California Vehicle Code 35551(a) – Overweight Vehicle Violations
California Vehicle Code 35551(a) focuses on vehicle axle weight limits and overall gross weight restrictions. For example, a truck driver operates a semi-trailer exceeding the permitted gross weight for its tandem axles. This trucker could be punished for their actions. Alternatively, a truck and trailer combination has a gross weight above the legal limit. This is also a violation.
There are times when deceptive practices by truckers or trucking companies can lead to penalties based on CA Vehicle Code 35551(a). For instance, a truck driver may tamper with their vehicle’s fuel tank or miscalibrate a scale, leading to an inaccurate weight measurement. These and similar practices can result in punishments.
A Los Angeles DUI lawyer understands how overwhelming it is to be charged with driving under the influence and an overweight vehicle violation. They provide insights into how prior convictions can be used in court and other legal topics relating to your case. Your attorney remains accessible to address your legal concerns as your litigation moves forward.
Penalties for California Vehicle Code 35551(a) – Overweight Vehicle Violations in CA
The weight limits for commercial vehicles are outlined in California Vehicle Code 35551(a). You could be charged with a misdemeanor if you drive an overweight vehicle in California. Being convicted can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and a jail sentence of up to six months.
Those charged with driving under the influence and an overweight vehicle violation relating to CA Vehicle Code 35551(a) face severe penalties. Along with jail or prison time and fines, you can also be looking at probation and having to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car.
A criminal defense lawyer who knows the ins and outs of California’s DUI laws and CA Vehicle Code 35551(a) can evaluate your case. They can explain California’s DUI penalties and how these can impact your life now and in the future.
Legal Defenses for Overweight Vehicle Violations in California and CA Vehicle Code 35551(a)
A criminal defense attorney considers numerous legal strategies. They look for evidence from a wide range of sources and craft an argument specifically for your case. Legal defenses your lawyer may use to defend you against a conviction for an overweight vehicle violation in California under CA Vehicle Code 35551(a) may include:
- Challenging the Accuracy of a Scale: Your lawyer could argue that a scale used to weigh your vehicle was not calibrated properly.
- Showing You Had a Valid Permit: If you received a permit from the California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS), your attorney could prove that it was legal for you to operate an overweight vehicle.
- Highlighting an Exemption: For those who were loading or unloading a truck in a designated area, an attorney could say that the vehicle may have been exempt from weight restrictions.
In the event that your overweight vehicle violation is linked to a driving under the influence charge, your lawyer will evaluate various DUI strategies.
How a Plea Deal Works If You Have Been Charged with an Overweight Vehicle Violation
Your lawyer can also explore a plea deal if you face a conviction for CA Vehicle Code 35551(a) – overweight vehicle violations. If the prosecution offers a plea agreement, your lawyer shares the proposal with you. Together, you and your attorney can examine the offer and assess its pros and cons.
There is no legal obligation to accept a plea deal. However, in many instances, it is beneficial to do so. Accepting a plea bargain could help avoid a jail or prison sentence and a steep fine. Plus, once you complete the terms of a plea agreement, you may be able to have your conviction expunged from your criminal record.
Those facing driving under the influence and overweight vehicle violations simultaneously may have the option to proceed with a plea deal. Your lawyer can discuss DUI plea bargains with you and what it means if you accept one.
Speak with a Lawyer Who Knows How to Contest a California Vehicle Code 35551(a) – Overweight Vehicle Violation
If you think an overweight vehicle violation in California will disappear, think again. Those who have been charged with an overweight vehicle offense in conjunction with driving under the influence should expect to be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Thankfully, criminal defense lawyers offer legal guidance and support to people in this situation.
Do not wait to work with Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, as we have assisted thousands of people in legal situations similar to yours. The attorney we put you in touch with will prioritize your case and guide you through your legal proceedings. Reach out to our team today.
