(1) A driver, person, or motor carrier as defined by 49 CFR 390.5 who operates or who requires or permits the driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle with a serious safety defect in violation of this act or a rule promulgated under this act is responsible for a state civil infraction and shall be assessed a fine of not more than $500.00 for each violation. A fine ordered to be paid by the district court under this subsection shall be paid to the county treasurer and applied for library purposes as provided by law. A fine ordered to be paid by a municipal court shall be paid to the treasurer of the political subdivision whose ordinance is violated.

    (2) As used in this section, "serious safety defect" means a violation of this act or a rule promulgated pursuant to this act relative to brakes, tires, steering, coupling devices, headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals that results in the vehicle being placed out of service.