Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) as a driver carrying a commercial driver’s license (CDL) carries specific penalties that differ from regular drivers. Commercial drivers carry a higher level of responsibility for safety and adherence to traffic laws based on the fact that they represent various companies and businesses. Unlike the 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of non-commercial drivers, commercial drivers in possession of commercial driver’s licenses are considered DUI at 0.04% or higher.
Phoenix Commercial Truck DUI Defense Attorney
Because of their massive size, safety requirements for operators of large commercial trucks are held to a higher standard for safety. Semis and big rig trucks can be as long as 75 feet and can reach full load weights of 80,000 pounds. Hurtling down the highway at excessive speeds amidst a sea of passenger vehicles is dangerous enough, and when combined with driving under the influence of a substance that hinders an operator’s reaction time and driving impairment the results can be devastating. With the substantial size difference between commercial trucks and the average length and weight of a passenger vehicle, it is not surprising that many collisions – whether DUI related or not – often result in fatalities.
Arizona Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Ratios:
- Under 21 years of age: 0.00% (Zero Tolerance)
- 21 years of age or older: 0.08%
- Commercial Vehicle Operator: 0.04%
- Extreme DUI: 0.15% or higher
DUI Penalties for CDL and Commercial Drivers
Commercial drivers and holders of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are convicted of driving under the influence if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.04% or higher as opposed to the 0.08% BAC for noncommercial drivers. Penalties for commercial drivers arrested for DUI may include:
- Suspension of one’s commercial driver’s license for up to one year
- Possible suspension of non-commercial driver’s license
- At driver’s expense, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device that checks BAC
- Attendance at Drug and Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Programs
- Attendance at Victims Impact Panels
- A Probationary Period
- Extensive Fines
- Extensive Court Costs
- Extensive Community Service
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – DUI Offenses
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) states that trucking industry employers may not knowingly allow, require, permit or authorize a driver who is disqualified to drive a commercial vehicle. Driving under the influence of an illegal substance while operating a commercial vehicle is a primary disqualifying offense. Regardless of whether or not a commercial driver was arrested for driving under the influence during work hours or off the clock, DUI charges may impact his employment and commercial licensure. An immediate one-year suspension of one’s commercial license is the result of driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04% or higher. Subsequent offenses carry higher penalties for both commercial and noncommercial DUI arrests.
Contact a Skilled Phoenix Commercial DUI Defense Attorney Today
Having a DUI conviction on your criminal and driving records will haunt you for years, perhaps even decades to come. Sound and reliable legal counsel will impact the outcome of the court proceedings as well as your DMV hearing. Seeking the assistance of a skilled Phoenix commercial DUI defense lawyer is highly advised and with a wealth of expertise, a commitment to integrity and a passion for defense, the Attorneys at Criminal Defense Lawyers PLLC are here to support you with your DUI case. We believe every defendant has the right to a solid defense. Call today for a free initial consultation at 877-887-4541.
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