For the most part, driving a vehicle is how many people get to work every day. For others, driving is even more critical because all or part of their job includes driving as a requirement.
Dealing with a traffic ticket can be more complex when it could impact your job. While some can simply pay the fine and be done with it, for others getting a ticket could affect their livelihood.
Here’s what you should know about when a traffic ticket could affect your ability to work.
Commercial drivers could be in trouble
Regardless of whether you are driving your commercial vehicle or your personal car, a traffic violation could have serious consequences. In most cases, if you lose your driving privileges at all (regardless of the vehicle you are driving), you could lose your commercial license.
Keep in mind, in addition to traffic tickets, there could be other situations where you could become disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle.
Professional drivers are not the only ones who could face problems
People with commercial driver’s licenses are not the only ones who have to drive as part of their everyday life. When your employer expects you to be able to drive as part of your job, getting a ticket could lead to getting reassigned or even fired.
Employers tend to have strict guidelines for allowing employees to drive for work, even using a personal vehicle. For example, home healthcare workers may need to use their personal car to take a client to an appointment.
Your employer may have a specific number of acceptable traffic tickets, or they may have a zero-tolerance policy.
Preventing an employment problem
It is critical to remember that you are admitting guilt when you pay a traffic ticket. Paying your traffic ticket and admitting guilt could have a serious impact if your employer has specific expectations of your driving record. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you protect your rights and your future employment opportunities.