Commercial DUI Charges

DUI/DWI and Commercial Drivers

Drivers who have commercial driver's licenses, licenses to operate commercial vehicles, face different laws and penalties regarding DUI, DWI and OUI. While the specific blood alcohol level will vary from state to state, the legal limit that applies to the majority of motorists on the road is lower for commercial drivers. For example, it may be illegal for a regular driver to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or greater, but a commercial driver may face criminal penalties for driving with a blood alcohol concentration of .04% or greater.

Additionally, the penalties and consequences associated with a DUI offense are harsher for a commercial driver, including longer suspension periods and the inability to apply for and receive a restricted license to drive for work and educational purposes. A commercial driver is also more likely to permanently lose commercial driving privileges as the result of a DUI conviction or even a second refusal of a breath test after a drunk driving arrest.

One particular factor to consider in regard to commercial DUI charges is the fact that a commercial driver relies upon his or her ability to drive in order to make a living. A commercial driver's employment may be threatened in the presence of a DUI arrest or in the wake of a criminal conviction for any type of drunk driving related offense. A clean driving record is one of the key factors that employers will look for when determining whether to hire a particular driver, and a commercial driver who has a DUI conviction on his or her record may therefore find job opportunities limited or nonexistent.

Working with a Lawyer

If you are a commercial driver who has been arrested for DUI or DWI, now is the time to seek legal counsel. You have the right to challenge the administrative suspension of your driver's license as well as your DUI charges in criminal court. A competent lawyer can work to protect your rights while seeking a dismissal or acquittal on your behalf.

Find a DUI attorneywho is experienced in handling commercial DUI cases in your area.