California is one of the strictest states when it comes to drunk driving – especially if have a commercial driver’s license. A drunk driving conviction, commonly referred to as a DUI, will always result in the suspension of your CDL license in California. However, just a DUI charge does not always turn into a conviction. With an experienced and aggressive Central Valley CDL defense attorney on your side, you could avoid a DUI conviction and the suspension of your CDL license.
Process CDL Holders Face After Getting a DUI Charge
Although there is no doubt that regular passenger vehicle drivers face consequences when charged with a DUI, those who hold a CDL license will receive different and perhaps more severe ramifications. One major difference is that a commercial driver will not get the privilege of a restricted license to protect their employment status. Individuals with standard licenses may be eligible for a temporary or restricted driver’s license that allows them go to work and back home.
However, if you hold a commercial driver’s license and get a DUI, regardless of whether you were driving a commercial or regular passenger vehicle at the time of the charge, you will not get the privilege of a restricted license to protect your employment status. Since many companies have strict legal restrictions regarding the employment of commercial drivers with specific traffic violations, especially drunk driving, it could result in the suspension or termination of your job.
Impact of a Second DUI Charge on a CDL
For a second drunk driving charge, commercial drivers will face even harsher ramifications. The major ramification of a second DUI conviction is that you will have your CDL revoked and will not be eligible to have it reinstated for the rest of your life.
If you are charged with drunk driving while driving a commercial vehicle and your blood alcohol content (BAC) is greater than .04%, you will face the same ramifications.
Can a Lawyer Help Me Defend My CDL License?
When you are faced with a drunk driving charge as a commercial driver, it is imperative that you immediately hire an experienced Central Valley CDL defense attorney. Losing your commercial license can significantly impact your financial livelihood. An aggressive attorney can present the best defense possible and increase the likelihood of DUI conviction.
Call an Experienced Central Valley CDL Defense Attorney
For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with CDL traffic violation attorney Gurjit Srai, please call us at (209) 323-5558.