The Anaheim Police Department’s Traffic Detail, along with allied agencies, will be conducting a Commercial Vehicle Safety Checkpoint on Tuesday, November 12th, in the area of La Palma Avenue and Blue Gum Street.
These inspections help keep Anaheim’s roadways safe for everyone by identifying unsafe vehicles before they cause harm. Our goal isn’t just enforcement. It’s education, safety and prevention.
Thank you to all the professional drivers who drive throughout our communities safely every day!
At a Commercial Vehicle Safety Checkpoint like the one planned in Anaheim, truck drivers can face several types of charges under California law. Here are the most common violations and penalties:
1. Failure to Stop and Submit to Inspection (VC §42002.1)
- What it means: Not stopping when directed for inspection.
- Penalty:
- Infraction: Fine up to $50 (first offense).
- Misdemeanor: Up to 5 days in jail and a fine up to $50 if prior related convictions exist.
2. Failure to Comply with CHP Rules (VC §34506)
- Covers:
- Hours of Service violations (driver fatigue).
- Hazardous material transport violations.
- Equipment and maintenance failures.
- Penalty:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 6 months in county jail and/or $1,000 fine.
3. Overweight Vehicle Violations (VC §35551)
- What it means: Exceeding legal weight limits.
- Penalty:
- If overweight by ≤4,500 lbs: Infraction, fine about $250.
- If overweight by >4,500 lbs: Misdemeanor, up to 6 months jail and $1,000 fine.
- Additional fines scale with excess weight:
- 1,001–1,500 lbs: $30
- 4,001–4,500 lbs: $145
- 10,001+ lbs: $2,000 + $0.20 per lb.
4. Logbook / Hours-of-Service Violations
- Drivers must maintain accurate records of duty status.
- Penalty:
- Can lead to misdemeanor charges under VC §34506.
- CDL points: Violations in a commercial vehicle count 1.5× normal points, risking license suspension if thresholds are exceeded (6 points in 12 months).
5. Equipment & Safety Violations
- Examples: Faulty brakes, lights, tires, or missing emergency gear.
- Penalty:
- Usually treated as out-of-service orders plus fines.
- Fines vary but can reach $850 or more for failed DOT inspections, plus repair costs.
Tip for Truckers: Ensure compliance with BIT (90-day) and DOT (annual) inspections, keep weight within limits, maintain logs, and carry all required documentation.