Getting citations and warnings is never a good thing for truck drivers, but mistakes do happen. When a driver receives a citation, it is either a fine or a summons to appear in court for an act that a law enforcement officer deemed illegal. Citations may come with a code that explains the violation, and they may also explain whether you need to be in court or pay a fine. There are seven categories of citations that are tied to a driver's CSA score. These categories include Unsafe, Vehicle Maintenance, Hours of Service, Driver Fitness, Drugs and Alcohol, Hazmat, and Crash. Violations in these categories can result in a warning, a citation, or both. Drivers can also get a violation for being overweight or not having the proper permits.

There is a difference between a citation and a warning. A warning is a precursor to a citation, but that does not mean it does not carry weight. A citation will appear on a driver's Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) once they pay the fine and/or go to court. Meanwhile, a warning will show up on their Pre-Employment Screening report (PSP) if it is documented during a roadside inspection.

Drivers have two options if they receive a citation. They can either fight the citation in court or admit guilt and pay the fine. If drivers decide to fight the citation, they may need to hire a lawyer and go to court in person. However, if they win, the citation will be removed from their record and the CSA points will come off their score. If they decide to pay the fine, they need to do so immediately in some cases, and the citation will stay on their record, affecting their CSA score.

To prevent warnings and citations, drivers need to practice safe driving behaviors, regularly perform pre-trip inspections, and weigh their loads after securing them. If a driver receives a citation, they should know how to proceed efficiently and legally. They can utilize outside services to help them or get help from ATS.
00:00 Introduction
00:14 What Is A Citation?
00:57 What Is A Warning?
01:37 Fighting Vs. Paying
02:37 Will My Company Help?
03:20 How Do CDL Legal Plans Help You?

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