Being a law-abiding driver in Calgary seems straightforward. Make sure you don’t run past a red light or stop signs, slow down in school zones, or follow the speed limits. However, the situation becomes trickier when violations departing from the basic ones occur. For instance, in Alberta, bumping into a car at parking lot or not having the proper insurance in certain circumstances can all lead to traffic violations. Nowadays, a valid driver’s license is required for a range of jobs, including in healthcare, government, and technical roles. A minor accident not only leaves you with a poor driving record, but could cost you your job. As an employee, it’s critical to know what to look out for when driving. At Martin G. Schulz & Associates, our experienced Calgary traffic lawyers understand the high stakes for commercial drivers. Read on to find out which traffic violations pose the greatest risk to your employment and how working with a traffic lawyer in Calgary can protect both your license and your livelihood.
Why Commercial Drivers Face Higher Penalties
Commercial drivers in Alberta face stricter regulations—provincial or federal. Since large vehicles or trucks transporting heavier goods may pose high risks, especially greater in long-distance travel, Canadian laws include tighter restrictions. Under the zero-tolerance policy for instance, commercial drivers identified with any percentage of alcohol or drugs can face immediate repercussions. This includes drivers with a Class 1, 2, or 4 license. Whereas private drivers or motorcyclists are subject to provincial laws for blood-alchol concentration (BAC) levels over 80mg alcohol / 100mL of blood, commercial drivers found with BAC of any level can face:- Federal charges
- Driver’s license suspension
- Fines and fees, impoundment
- Mandatory programs
How Traffic Violations Affect Employment
When applying for a job, it’s essential to consider how employers may consider your driving abstract for employment:1. Regulatory Compliance
No matter what kind of car you’re driving for work—company, private, commercial—compliance with local regulations is critical. Your employer will want to make sure that you’re capable of operating a vehicle safely. Having a valid commercial driver’s licence and clean record help prevent legal issues and hazards down the line.2. Insurance Costs
A violation on your record, no matter how minor, can be taken into consideration. When accidents happen from driving for work purposes, employers are shouldered with the liability. Especially for adults under the age of 25, having a history of speeding, tickets, and other violations can increase the company’s insurance premiums and costs. For employers, every infraction adds up and can greatly increase costs for the business.3. Liability Considerations
Although employers may cover you in their insurance policy, they’re less likely to do so if you already have charges or violations present on your driving record. Having a clean driving history means that employers are less likely to think of the liabilities that may come with a poor abstract.Types of Traffic Violations
1. Failing to Renew Registration
While it’s easy to overlook deadlines, forgetting to renew your registration can lead to fines. Depending on your record history, you may also receive further penalties. It’s also worth noting that there is no grace period and penalties can be issued immediately.2. Speeding Past Ambulances
Although it’s common knowledge to stop at a red light or stop sign, speeding past ambulances during an emergency also constitutes a violation. Vehicles driving in the next lane should be cautious of slowing down ahead of time, based on the posted speed limit. Repercussions can include doubled fines, demerits, or other penalties.3. Driving Without Insurance
In Alberta, if an officer catches you driving without valid insurance, this could land you with fines and other penalties. Drivers who have valid insurance but fail to provide proof can also face penalties. Receiving an insurance ticket could lead to increased premiums, licence suspension, or even jail time.4. Driving Under the Influence
Impaired driving charges are not only associated with recreational use. An officer can pull you over to perform a sobriety test if suspected of impaired driving for various reasons. In Calgary, driving under the influence of prescription medication can also lead to penalties, including vehicle seizures, licence suspension, and legal fees.How a Calgary Traffic Lawyer Can Help
If you’re a commercial driver facing a traffic violation, the best way to protect your job is to fight the ticket—and to do it with the help of an experienced traffic lawyer in Calgary. At Martin G. Schulz & Associates, we:- Evaluate the details of your case to determine if the ticket can be challenged or reduced
- Represent you in traffic court, saving you time and potentially preventing demerit points
- Negotiate for reduced penalties to help protect your CDL and employment status
- Advocate for your rights, especially in cases involving commercial vehicle regulations