Getting behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle when you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in Pico Rivera. Being charged can come with a number of severe consequences, potentially impacting your employment opportunities and driving privileges.

A Pico Rivera commercial DUI lawyer can prepare an effective defense, with the aim of minimizing penalties where possible.

At Los Angeles DUI Attorney, we can put you in touch with the right Pico Rivera DUI lawyer who knows exactly how to handle your case. Get peace of mind now by giving us a call to discuss your options.

Why You Need a Pico Rivera Commercial DUI Lawyer

If you’re stopped for a suspected commercial DUI, one of the first things you should do is contact a lawyer. A legal representative will look out for you, making sure your case is handled professionally. Here’s how:

To Protect Your Rights

Law enforcement must follow proper legal procedures at all times. If there are any violations made during the stop, arrest, testing, or charging process, a commercial DUI attorney will be able to challenge this and argue to have your charges reduced or dismissed altogether.

For Analyzing Evidence

Evidence plays an important role in a commercial DUI case, which is why a skilled lawyer will take the time to pore over every detail. They’ll look at dashcam footage, witness statements, police reports, photographs, chemical test results, and more, identifying any inconsistencies or errors that may weaken the prosecution’s case against you.

As Experienced Legal Representation

A commercial DUI attorney can provide legal advice throughout the process. They’ll develop a compelling defense based on the facts and present your case at DMV hearings, during negotiations with prosecutors, and throughout court proceedings, all while working to achieve the most successful outcome for your situation.

Understanding California Law Around Commercial DUIs

While the legal limit for non-commercial drivers is 0.08%, under California Vehicle Code § 23152(d), it is illegal to drive a commercial vehicle if your blood alcohol level (BAC) is 0.04% or above.

The reason the limit for commercial drivers is lower is that these vehicles are usually larger and heavier, posing a great risk to the public if an accident were to happen. Because of this, commercial drivers have a much greater duty of care, making the law a lot stricter around driving under the influence.

If you are stopped for a commercial DUI in Pico Rivera, you may face a wide range of charges, and each one comes with various consequences. This will be based on the circumstances of your case, but the right legal aid can help you understand what you’re up against.

What to Expect from Commercial DUI Charges in Pico Rivera

Commercial DUI charges are different for each case. If this is your first offense and it was a simple DUI, you may be charged with a misdemeanor, but if there were aggravating factors involved, or prior DUI convictions on your record, it could be worse.

Let’s see how some of the main DUI charges work:

First–time commercial DUI: Often charged as a misdemeanor with the possibility of 96 hours to six months in jail, fines of up to $1,000, and other court-ordered requirements.
Second–time commercial DUI (within 10 years): Another potential misdemeanor charge with between 90 days and one year in jail, and fines of up to $1,000.
Third–time commercial DUI (within 10 years): A misdemeanor that may earn you anywhere between 120 days and one year in jail, as well as fines of up to $1,000.
Fourth–time commercial DUI: This is often charged as a felony, with between 16 months and three years in prison, and fines of up to $1,000.
Commercial DUI with injury: If your commercial DUI resulted in the injury of another person, it will likely be filed as a felony; however, this will depend on your specific situation. It could get you up to four years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.

The consequences you face won’t always stick to this structure. A court will look at your history and assess the severity of the crime before determining the final charges and penalties. Your BAC level, chemical test results, witness statements, prior convictions, and more will all play a part in this decision.

Can You Lose Your Commercial Driver’s License After a Commercial DUI?

Yes, being found guilty of a commercial DUI can lead to the suspension or disqualification of your commercial driver’s license (CDL). This usually happens alongside other penalties such as jail time, fines, and mandatory education programs.

After your arrest, the DMV will begin its own administrative process. This involves reviewing your driving privileges, which is when they may decide to revoke your CDL. You will have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the DMV, where you can challenge the suspension of your license.

Because losing your CDL can have such an impact on your future, having legal representation during this hearing is a must. A skilled attorney can present the facts of your case and argue against any unfair practices or tactics, so that you have a better chance of keeping your license.

Get the Legal Representation You Need

Commercial DUIs are a lot more complicated than standard DUIs. Your livelihood is often on the line, which can have a huge effect on your career opportunities and earning potential. And if this is your first offense, the process can be a lot harder than you think.

We can connect you with a Pico Rivera commercial DUI lawyer who will assess your case and look for ways to reduce the charges against you. They’ll make sure your rights are protected and create a defense that works best for your case.

Learn more about the top three defenses against a commercial DUI charge. And get in touch with our team to find out more about how we can help you.