From tractor-trailers transporting precious cargo to buses carrying dozens of passengers, operating these vehicles requires holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Since CDL holders drive massive commercial vehicles for a living, they are held to a stricter standard compared to non-commercial drivers – especially when it comes to drunk or drugged driving.
For example, California commercial DUI law makes it a DUI offense to operate a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of at least .04 percent. On the other hand, driving a non-commercial vehicle with a BAC level of .08 percent or higher can result in a DUI arrest.
The following are the potential penalties a commercial driver may face if he/she is convicted of a first DUI offense in California:
A jail sentence of up to one (1) year
Fines of up to $1,000
Mandatory DUI school for three (3) to 36 months
Most importantly, getting convicted of a first-time DUI is also punishable by commercial driver’s license suspension for one (1) year, or three (3) years if the CDL holder was transporting hazardous materials at the time of the arrest. A second conviction will result in lifetime CDL revocation, according to both state and federal law.
Keep in mind, if a commercial driver was driving his/her personal vehicle at the time of the DUI arrest, a conviction will lead to CDL suspension. Additionally, it will also apply if the driver is arrested for DUI, and he/she refuses to take either a breath test or a blood test.
If you are a commercial driver who has been arrested for a California DUI, a conviction can not only result in harsh penalties and a criminal record, but it can also result in losing your career and your ability to support yourself and your family. When facing serious criminal charges, you must hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights throughout the legal process and help you maintain your CDL and your livelihood by getting the best possible outcome in your case.
If you have been arrested for a commercial DUI in Oakland, call the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed at (510) 907-6600 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a consultation. Also serving clients in Bakersfield, Berkeley, Richmond, Concord, and the surrounding areas.