Plan would expand CDL violations

Commercial driver’s license holders will face harsher penalties for passenger vehicle violations if a federal proposal is put in place.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration officials estimate the rules would prevent 500 commercial motor vehicle-related crashes annually due to disqualifications of drivers for their actions while driving noncommercial vehicles.

“It makes perfect sense to hold CMV drivers accountable for driving convictions while operating any type of motor vehicle,” says Julie Anna Cirillo, FMCSA acting deputy administrator. The proposal would disqualify the holder’s CDL.

Offenses that would disqualify a convicted driver include DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, controlled substance violations, railroad crossing violations, excessive speeding and reckless driving. The time period for disqualification would vary.

FMCSA will accept comments on the proposal through Aug. 2. Comments can be faxed to (202) 493-2251, mailed to USDOT Docket Facility, Attn: Docket No. FMCSA-00-7382, Room PL-401, 400 Seventh St. S.W., Washington, D.C., 20590-0001; or submitted online at dmses.dot.gov/submit.