A CDL, short for a commercial driver’s license, is a special license that those who drive trucks and other large vehicles for a living must have in order to operate such conveyances. Obtaining one requires a whole different set of skills than a regular driver’s license. Given the higher standard needed to drive a commercial vehicle, the laws of Pennsylvania are that much harsher for those who face charges of driving with a CDL. In the Keystone State, if you have a Blood Alcohol Content of 0.02% or higher and drive a school bus, or a BAC of 0.04% and possess a CDL, you may face charges of driving under the influence of alcohol. If you face charges of driving under the influence with a commercial driver’s license, please read on, then contact an experienced Pittsburgh CDL DUI lawyer to learn what are the penalties for a CDL DUI in Pennsylvania.
What penalties do you face for a CDL DUI in Pennsylvania?
Depending on the number of times, if any, you have previously sustained convictions for this or similar offenses, you will face increasingly severe penalties. The penalties for drunk driving with a commercial driver’s license are as follows:
1st offense commercial driver’s license DUI:
- Suspension of driver’s license for up to 12 months
- 2 days to 6 months of incarceration
- A fine between $500 and $5,000
- Potential 1-year CDL suspension if convicted of an additional “serious traffic infraction” while operating a commercial vehicle
2nd offense commercial driver’s license DUI:
- A 12-month suspension of your driver’s license
- A fine of $5,000
- 1 to 6 months of incarceration
- You will be permanently disqualified from having a CDL
As you have probably noticed, the penalties for driving while intoxicated with a commercial driver’s license are quite severe. You may be unemployed during the whole of your license suspension.
How can a Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney fight a CDL DUI?
A skilled Allegheny County DUI lawyer can lodge the following arguments:
- Police did not have probable cause to arrest you
- Authorities conducted an improper arrest or testing procedure
- Credible defense witnesses can attest to your being sober
- The testing equipment was malfunctioning
Without you being aware of it, the police may have violated your constitutional rights. As such, everything they touch will become suspect, and you may see a reduction or even a dismissal of your charges. Our firm will fully apprise you of your rights and responsibilities and provide effective guidance. Do not go it alone. Give us a call today.
Contact Our Pittsburgh DUI Lawyer
The Law Office of George Heym focuses exclusively on DUI defense. George Heym is a former Allegheny County DUI prosecutor with an understanding of both sides of a DUI case, notable litigation experience, and relationships with local courts. Contact our firm to fight for your rights.
