Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense, but if you’re a commercial driver, the stakes are even higher. We can connect you with a Santa Clarita DUI lawyer who can provide representation.
A DUI conviction can upend your life and threaten your career as a commercial driver. But you don’t have to fight these charges alone.
If you’ve been charged with a commercial DUI, a Santa Clarita commercial DUI lawyer can take on your case and help you mount a defense. Contact us today to connect with an attorney.
How Can a Commercial DUI Lawyer Help?
If you’ve been charged with a commercial DUI, an attorney can help by:
- Evaluating your case: A lawyer can review the details of your case, including the arrest record, evidence, and any potential violations of your rights.
- Building a defense: A lawyer can gather evidence and develop a strong defense.
- Negotiating: An experienced lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
- Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can provide representation and defend your rights.
By working with a commercial DUI lawyer in Santa Clarita, you can significantly improve your odds of a favorable outcome.
What Are the Penalties for a Commercial DUI Conviction?
The penalties for a commercial DUI conviction in California can be severe and long-lasting. They include:
- CDL suspension: If it’s your first offense, your CDL will be suspended for one year. A second offense will result in a lifetime suspension.
- Non–CDL suspension: You may be suspended from driving non-commercial vehicles.
- Fines: You may have to pay a fine of up to $1,000, depending on the circumstances of the case.
- Probation: You could receive up to five years of probation.
- Jail time: If convicted, you could be sentenced to up to six months in jail.
- DUI education programs: You may be required to attend and complete DUI education or substance abuse treatment programs, which often involve out-of-pocket costs.
- Increased insurance costs: The addition of a DUI to your record can lead to substantially higher insurance premiums, both for personal and commercial coverage.
A commercial DUI attorney in Santa Clarita can work to minimize the consequences of your DUI charge.
Can I Still Be a Truck Driver with a DUI?
The answer to whether a DUI conviction will end your trucking career depends on the circumstances of your case and your criminal history.
- First–time offenders: If this is your first DUI offense, you may still be eligible to continue working as a truck driver. However, your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) will be suspended for at least one year.
- Multiple offenses: A second DUI conviction could lead to a permanent disqualification of your CDL, meaning you would no longer be able to work as a truck driver.
- Felony DUI: If your DUI offense involved aggravating factors, such as causing injury or death while driving under the influence, it could be classified as a felony. A felony conviction can result in a lifetime ban from trucking.
A skilled DUI attorney can fight for your rights and improve your odds of preserving your career.
Can My Case Get Dismissed?
Yes, a commercial DUI case can be dismissed under certain circumstances. Common reasons include:
- Improper procedure: If law enforcement failed to follow proper protocol during your arrest, your case could be thrown out.
- Faulty evidence: Inaccurate or improperly handled evidence can be challenged.
- Violation of rights: If your constitutional rights were violated (such as by being stopped without probable cause), it could lead to a dismissal.
An attorney can examine your case to identify grounds for dismissal.
How Long After a DUI Can You Drive for a Company?
If you’ve been convicted of a DUI and want to go back to driving for a commercial company, the time frame for when you can do so will depend on several factors, including:
- Suspension period: After a DUI conviction, your CDL will be suspended for a minimum of one year (or longer if there are aggravating factors). During this suspension period, you will be legally prohibited from operating a commercial vehicle.
- Reinstating your CDL: Once your suspension ends, you’ll need to apply to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to have your CDL reinstated. Once it’s reinstated, you may be eligible to drive a commercial vehicle again.
- Company policies: Different trucking companies have different policies regarding DUI convictions. Some companies may allow you to drive once your suspension is over and your CDL is reinstated, while others may refuse to hire or rehire drivers with a DUI conviction.
What Is California’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit?
In California, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%, compared to 0.08% for non-commercial drivers. This strict limit reflects the increased responsibility and safety risks associated with operating commercial vehicles.
Even if your BAC is below 0.04% when you’re pulled over, you could still face consequences if law enforcement believes your ability to drive has been impaired.
What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with a Commercial DUI
If you’ve been charged with a commercial DUI, it’s crucial to:
- Stay calm: Cooperate with law enforcement and avoid making self-incriminating statements.
- Request a DMV hearing: You have a limited window to contest the suspension of your CDL.
- Consult a lawyer: Contact a commercial DUI lawyer immediately to discuss your case and begin building your defense.
Contact a Santa Clarita Commercial DUI Attorney Today
A commercial DUI charge is a serious matter. If you’re facing such charges in Santa Clarita, it’s critical to seek legal assistance.
A commercial DUI attorney can protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and fight for a positive outcome. Contact us today to connect with an experienced lawyer.
