What Is a Commercial DUI?

When a person with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), they can get a commercial DUI charge. The commercial driver faces the penalty of having their CDL suspended if they are convicted. It is important to note that what is considered drunk driving for a commercial driver is considerably stricter compared to other motorists. While driving a commercial vehicle, the driver can face a DUI charge if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.04, which is half of the legal limit for drivers who have a basic license. Punishments become significantly stricter when the BAC level for a commercial driver is 0.10 or above or if the intoxication is the result of drugs. What Happens if a Commercial Driver Is Charged With a DUI? If the commercial driver’s BAC level is 0.10 or lower, possible penalties for a first charge include:

• Three- to 12 month-suspension of a basic driver’s license.
• One-year suspension of a CDL.
• Fines of $250 to $400.
• Up to 48 hours at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) program.
• Up to 30 days in jail.

If the commercial driver’s BAC level is 0.10 or higher, the possible penalties include:

• Basic driver’s license suspension of seven months to a year.
• One-year suspension of CDL.
• Fines from $300 to $500.
• Up to 48 hours at an IDRC program.
• Up to 30 days in jail.

What if the Driver Is Charged With a Second DUI? If the commercial driver gets a second DUI, the possible punishments include:

• Two-year suspension of the basic driver’s license.
• Lifetime CDL suspension.
• Fines of up to $1,000.
• Up to 48 hours at an IDRC program.
• Up to 90 days in jail.
• Possible 30 days of community service.

Punishments for impaired driving are usually much harsher for commercial drivers. If a commercial driver is charged with a DUI, they cannot work if their CDL is suspended, which means no income. Being convicted of impaired driving is a serious traffic violation, but it remains on the driving record permanently. For a commercial driver, this can mean disqualification from potential jobs.

South Jersey DUI Lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John Can Help if You Have a Commercial DUI Charge

Every motorist makes mistakes, and commercial drivers are held to a higher standard. Our South Jersey DUI lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John know how to help those who have DUI charges. Call us at 856-296-3481 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Salem County.