If you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), then you are held to a higher standard when it comes to DUI laws. This is because driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a very serious offense and can put other people’s lives at risk. If you are caught driving under the influence with a CDL, you will likely face serious penalties, including a loss of your license.
The first thing you need to know is that, in most states, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, if you are driving a commercial vehicle, the legal limit is lower, at 0.04%. This means that it doesn’t take much alcohol for you to be considered legally impaired, and you could be charged with a DUI even if your BAC is below 0.08%.
If you are convicted of a DUI while driving a commercial vehicle, you will face harsh penalties. These can include a loss of your CDL for up several years, as well as fines, jail time, and mandatory alcohol treatment. You will also likely have your insurance rates increase and may have difficulty finding future employment as a commercial driver.
If you are facing a DUI charge with a CDL, it is important to seek the help of an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Defending DUI Charges
Your lawyer will work hard to fight for your justice and help you keep your CDL.
- Review the facts of your case to look for any possible defenses. There may be problems with the way the police stopped or arrested you, or with the breathalyzer test that was used to determine your BAC. An experienced attorney will know how to look for these types of issues.
- Negotiation with the prosecutor. In many cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal that will result in lesser charges or penalties. Your attorney will know how to navigate the negotiation process and fight for the best possible outcome.
- Prepare for trial. If your case goes to trial, your attorney will be by your side every step of the way, helping you to prepare and present your best defense.
Getting a DUI charge with a CDL can be a very serious matter, with potentially life-changing consequences.
A DUI charge can impact your ability to get a job in the future, especially if you are looking for a job that involves driving a commercial vehicle. A conviction for DUI while driving a commercial vehicle can result in a loss of your CDL for several years, as well as other penalties. This could make it difficult to find future employment, as many employers will not want to hire someone with a DUI on their record. If you are facing a DUI charge, it is important to seek the help of an experienced attorney who can fight for your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
