Colonial Heights DUIs for Commercial Drivers
Colonial Heights DUIs for commercial drivers are different from other DUIs because CDL holders are held to a higher standard than other drivers. A DUI conviction could have serious consequences for commercial drivers, especially if they lose their license.
If you were accused of a DUI, you should get in touch with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. A skilled criminal defense lawyer could fight to protect your rights and keep you on the road.
DUI Laws for CDL Holders in Colonial Heights
DUI laws in Colonial Heights are going to be a little different for individuals who have a commercial driver’s license. When they are not driving their commercial vehicle, the laws are the same as normal. They are considered intoxicated if they have a BAC above 0.08.
If they are driving their commercial vehicle, the BAC threshold is significantly lower. If they are driving their truck with a 0.04 or higher BAC with a CDL, they are considered intoxicated for the purposes of a DUI.
If someone has a commercial driver’s license and is convicted of DUI, their CDL is going to be suspended anywhere from one to three years post-conviction. Someone who relies on commercial driving to make a living has a lot more to lose in a DUI conviction.
Impact of a DUI on Employment
A DUI charge could impact a driver’s employment, even if they are not convicted. Virginia is an employment-at-will state, and most companies that require people to have CDLs do not want anyone with a DUI conviction. Generally, it is not worth the risk to them. If a person gets a DUI, there is a very high possibility that they could be let go based off that fact alone.
Standards for Commercial Drivers
If someone is driving a CDL, they are held to the highest standards. A BAC of 0.04 is not a very high threshold, so commercial drivers are essentially prohibited from having any amount of alcohol in their system. Because of the extreme size and weight of commercial vehicles, they can pose a serious threat to other people if they are not driven safely. CDL drivers are held to a higher standard in the interest of public safety.
Because of these high standards, courts treat CDL DUI cases very seriously. The court has no problem not only suspending the operator’s driver’s license, but also refusing to grant restricted licenses to operators with CDLs. Depending on how high the BAC is, they could even lock up someone who is caught driving under the influence while operating a commercial vehicle. It is seen as an aggravating factor when dealing with the judges in Colonial Heights.
Contact a Commercial Driver DUI Attorney Today
If you were charged with driving a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol, do not risk handling this case alone. Colonial Heights DUIs for commercial drivers are serious offenses, and without experienced representation, you could risk your livelihood. Speak with a DUI attorney as soon as possible to begin building a defense.
