What Penalties Will I Face For A Dui Charge With A Cdl?

No matter what type of license or vehicle you have, if you are charged with a DUI, you will face severe penalties. In Maryland, they enforce strict laws and penalties if you are convicted of driving while under the influence (DUI) of illegal substances with a commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you are charged with a DUI with a CDL, contact an experienced Pensacola DUI Defense Lawyer who can help defend your interests. We want to help you reach favorable results.

What consequences may result from a DUI with a commercial driver’s license?

There are harsher and stricter punishments for DUIs with a CDL than other types of licenses. If this is your first offense, your license will be suspended for one year. If this is your second offense DUI with a CDL, you will permanently lose your CDL with no exceptions. In certain cases, drivers with regular licenses may request privileges to drive to and from their work. However, CDL drivers have no driving privileges if convicted of a DUI. Penalties may vary by severity. However, some consequences are not faced by the law. Drivers with CDLs will have a harder time being re-employed after their CDL has been suspended because of a DUI as any vehicle they operate will have increased insurance rates. Additionally, CDL holders risk losing their job if they are convicted of a DUI. If you are charged with a DUI, you are unable to drive making it impossible for you to do your job anymore.

What is a commercial driver’s license (CDL)?

A commercial driver’s license is a specialized license restricted to truck and bus drivers. One may obtain this license after they’ve obtained a standard license. You may be qualified for either a class A, class B, or class C CDL in Maryland.

Class A

Individuals are required to acquire this type of license if they are operating a combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating of over 26,000 lbs and a gross vehicle weight rating being towed over 10,000 lbs. They will need a Class A CDL if they fall into this category. They may also operate vehicles in Class B or C as well.

Class B

Individuals are required to acquire this type of license if they are operating a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 26,000 lbs and towing no more than 10,000 lbs.

Class C

Individuals who operate a single or combination vehicle (except a motorcycle) with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 26,001 lbs and tow 10,000 lbs or less.

If you operate a commercial vehicle, you are held to a higher standard than other drivers. Some rules and regulations are enforced because of the large size and density of these trucks to ensure everyone’s safety. If you neglect to abide by these federal rules of the road, you will have to suffer the consequences of your actions. If you are convicted of a DUI with a CDL, contact one of our qualified and dedicated lawyers who can defend your rights.