Any DUI conviction will result in a loss of your CDL.
Most people know that it is against the law to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs in California. What many people aren’t aware of is the serious consequences of doing so. Not only do you put your own life and the lives of others at risk if you drink and drive, you can also be sentenced to jail, be required to pay hefty fines and fees, and be subjected to other penalties. For people who have commercial driver’s licenses (CDL), this will include a suspension of your license — even if you weren’t driving a commercial motor vehicle at the time of your arrest.
First, it is important to understand that there are special laws that apply when you are driving a commercial motor vehicle (such as a bus, big rig, or a bulldozer). The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is just .04% when you are operating a commercial motor vehicle. In contrast, for most other drivers (other than people currently on DUI probation or under the age of 21), the legal limit is .08%. However, this limit only applies when you are physically operating a commercial motor vehicle. If you are arrested on suspicion of a DUI while you are driving a non-commercial vehicle, the standard limit will apply — even if you have a CDL.
However, as a DUI defense lawyer in Riverside, CA can explain, that doesn’t mean that this type of DUI won’t have an impact on your CDL. A conviction for any type of DUI in California may result in criminal penalties and a suspension of your CDL. If you are arrested for (1) driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of .04% or higher; (2) driving a non-commercial vehicle with a BAC of .08% or higher; or (3) driving any vehicle while actually impaired by alcohol and/or drugs, you will face these penalties.
Criminal consequences of a DUI will be based on the seriousness of the offense as well as your history with regards to DUIs. For a first-time DUI, you could be sentenced to up to 1 year in county jail, up to $1,00 fines, informal probation, and/or mandatory alcohol education classes.
In addition, your CDL will be suspended for at least one year for any DUI conviction. Your CDL may also be suspended if you are arrested and refuse to a submit to a chemical breath or blood test. If you are convicted of a second DUI, then you will lose your CDL for life.
Your regular driver’s license will also be suspended if you are convicted of a DUI. You may be able to obtain a restricted driver’s license during this time to drive to or from work, to obtain medical care, and to go to or from school. However, you cannot get a restricted CDL. If your CDL is suspended, then you are prohibited from driving a commercial vehicle during the suspension — period. For this reason, it is incredibly important to hire an experienced DUI defense lawyer in Riverside, CA to defend you against DUI charges if you have a CDL.
At the Chambers Law Firm, we know that your CDL is your livelihood. If you have a CDL and have been charged with a California DUI, we can help. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation.
