Driving while drunk can put your livelihood and reputation in jeopardy especially if convicted for DUI with CDL. Although both regular drivers and the ones with Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL) risk severe DUI conviction, the penalties can be considerably more devastating for individuals with CDL even if you are off duty or driving your private car at the time of the arrest.

If you have a CDL and have been charged with DUI, it is important you know your options to avoid conviction that may negatively impact your finances and future job prospects.  

What are the Differences Between a regular DUI and a DUI with a CDL?

Drivers with a regular license can be arrested for drunk driving if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is at or over 0.08 percent. If convicted of a DUI, the penalties will vary based on a number of factors. For example, someone convicted of a first-offense DUI could face up to nine months in jail, pay up to $1,000 in fines and have their license suspended for up to 12 months.

On the other hand, a CDL holder convicted of a DUI will lose their license automatically for a minimum of 12 month. This means such an individual will not be able to work for an entire year or more, depending on the charges.

DUI conviction can significantly hurt the convict’s chances of securing a job even after the suspension has been lifted. Looking at how DUI conviction can put your finances, livelihood and reputation on the line, it is advisable to explore every legal means to avert such judgment.

What are the Guidelines for DUI with a CDL in Pennsylvania?

Unlike the regular DUI where the standard BAC level is 0.08 percent, CDL holders are considered impaired with a BAC level of only 0.02 percent. A BAC level of 0.04 can land you in the State’s High Impairment Tier. This means you can face up to six months in jail coupled with a license suspension for one year with a maximum fine of $5,000.

If you are convicted of a first-offense DUI with CDL, you will automatically have your license suspended for a minimum of 12 months. In addition, you could face fines from $500 -$5,000 and possible jail time of between two days to six months in jail.

A second offense will attract the same minimum 12 months license suspension penalty including increased fines of $750-$5,000 and jail time anywhere from one to six months. The penalty could however become compounded if you are guilty of serious traffic violations such as excessive speeding, reckless driving, or texting/calling while driving.

How can you Escape Conviction if you were charged with a DUI with a CDL?

Being charged does not mean you have to be convicted. A DUI case can be won in court when you have an experienced DUI lawyer on your side. One of the best law firms to hire experienced DUI lawyers is Wyland Law Group. DUI attorneys at Wyland Law Group are renowned for their excellent track record of winning cases for their clients. They work hard to avert conviction by providing outstanding representation and defense. To discuss your case with an experienced DUI lawyer, visit their official website or call 412-710-0013.

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