The California Highway Patrol (CHP) made an example out of a commercial vehicle driver caught exceeding the speed limit while in the wrong lane for trucks.
On September 25, 2026, CHP took to social media to remind commercial vehicle drivers to keep right and obey the state’s 55 m.p.h. speed limit for trucks.
According to CHP, Officer Michaelson was recently patrolling I-5 in the Stockton area when he spotted a commercial vehicle traveling at speeds of 76 m.p.h. while traveling in the #2 lane.
“…That’s 21 m.p.h. over the legal limit for this vehicle!” CHP said.
A traffic stop was initiated and the driver was cited.
CHP called on commercial vehicle drivers to obey speed and lane restrictions:
“Here’s the important part: Commercial vehicles subject to California’s 55 MPH maximum speed limit must obey that limit, regardless of the higher posted speed limit for other traffic. Commercial vehicles are also restricted from certain lanes depending on the roadway.
There’s a reason for these restrictions. A fully loaded commercial vehicle can weigh tens of thousands of pounds and requires significantly more time and distance to stop. Add excessive speed, and the driver has even less time to react when traffic conditions suddenly change. The consequences of a collision can be severe.
We appreciate the professional drivers who safely move goods through our communities every day. Please stay in the appropriate lanes, obey the 55 MPH limit when required, and give yourself plenty of time and space to react.“
Learn more about California’s Truck Lane Use laws for vehicles restricted to 55 m.p.h. here.
