Stricter laws apply to commercial drivers who are caught driving under the influence. For a long time, the government has recognized the importance of regulating the effective operation of trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles. Due to their particular nature, the drivers of these vehicles are expected to be extra cautious.
When commercial trucks are involved in a traffic accident, the consequences are tragic, especially for drivers of smaller cars, since trucks can be as long as 75 feet and weigh up to 80,000 pounds or more when loaded.
The cases of DUI in which drivers with commercial licenses are involved are totally different and the penalties vary, due to the size of the vehicle and the fact that the driver has more responsibility.
The driver can be arrested on DUI charges with a minimum blood alcohol concentration of 0.04%.
Information on Commercial Licenses
Commercial truck drivers must have a special license. However, upon their first DUI offense, the commercial license is changed to a non-commercial class C license. Some drivers are able to obtain restricted licenses, but it is the bosses who are responsible for suspending the driving privilege of their drivers for DUI charges.
Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that these drivers have a strong defense. An experienced DWI attorney can help you understand your options if you are facing such charges.
Risks of Commercial DUI/DWI
Commercial vehicles are larger than ordinary motor vehicles. An accident involving a commercial vehicle can have serious consequences. It can be fatal due to the sheer difference in size of a semi truck compared to other vehicles on the road.
A driver can be disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle if:
● Regular DUI with a BAC of 0.08% while driving a standard motor vehicle
● Drug DUI while driving a standard vehicle
● 0.04% BAC while driving a commercial vehicle
Detecting Commercial DUI/DWI
Commercial drivers, like other drivers on the road, can be stopped and checked for DUI/DWI if a law enforcement officer has suspicions that the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The commercial company may also carry out checks before the driver is assigned a vehicle. Many companies also subject commercial drivers to drug tests when hiring them.
Punishments for Commercial DUI/DWI
The penalties for commercial DUI/DWI are greater than a regular DUI/DWI. If the commercial driver refuses to take a test to determine his blood alcohol concentration when he is arrested on suspicion of DUI/DWI, he will automatically be deemed guilty.
A commercial driver convicted of DUI/DWI will face the same consequences as another person convicted of DUI/DWI. However, the limit on blood alcohol concentration for commercial DUI/DWI is less than the legal limit for drivers in general. A commercial DUI/DWI conviction will result in the suspension of the commercial driver’s license. When the license suspension is exercised, the person cannot operate a commercial vehicle.
Contact a DUI/DWI Attorney Today
If you have been arrested for commercial DUI/DWI you may have defenses available. Contact the attorneys at Abel Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.