Mobile DUI Lawyer

A DUI conviction can have serious consequences for commercial driver's license (CDL) holders. In addition to criminal penalties, you may face the suspension or disqualification of your CDL, which can jeopardize your livelihood. Even if you were driving your personal vehicle at the time of the arrest, your commercial driving privileges may still be affected.

Because both Alabama law and federal regulations apply to CDL holders, it is important to speak with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. 

Yes.

Commercial drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) are subject to a lower legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit than other motorists.

• Commercial vehicle: 0.04% BAC 
• Personal vehicle: 0.08% BAC (for drivers age 21 and older) 

A CDL holder can face DUI-related consequences at a BAC of 0.04% while operating a commercial vehicle, even though that same BAC would be below the legal limit for most drivers in a personal vehicle. 

Yes.

Many CDL holders are surprised to learn that a DUI arrest or conviction while driving their personal vehicle can still result in the disqualification of their commercial driver's license.

The consequences depend on the facts of the case and your driving history, but a DUI involving your personal vehicle can affect both your regular driver's license and your CDL.

For many CDL holders:

• First qualifying offense: Generally results in a one-year CDL disqualification. 
• Second qualifying offense: May result in lifetime CDL disqualification, although limited reinstatement options may exist in certain circumstances. 

It depends on your employer, your company's policies, and the outcome of your case.

Many employers have strict policies regarding DUI arrests or convictions, and some may terminate employment following a CDL disqualification. Successfully defending the DUI charge may help reduce or avoid the impact on your commercial driving career.

Possibly.

Every DUI case is different. Depending on the evidence, an attorney may be able to challenge:

• The legality of the traffic stop 
• Field sobriety testing 
• Breath or blood test results 
• The officer's observations 
• Whether your constitutional rights were violated 

A reduction or dismissal may help protect your driving privileges, although federal CDL regulations can still apply depending on the disposition of the case.

Absolutely.

For commercial drivers, a DUI charge can threaten both your freedom and your career. An experienced DUI attorney can evaluate the evidence, explain the potential consequences to your CDL, and work to protect your commercial driving privileges whenever possible.

If you, or someone you know, are facing CDL DUI charges, contact us today at 251-300-0275 to schedule a consultation to begin to process of retaining Blake Vrieze.