CDL Lawyers Help With DWIs
Professional drivers are held to a higher standard than average drivers when it comes to substance use while driving. Those who make a living using their commercial driver’s license (CDL) can not only face consequences for driving while intoxicated (DWI) at a lower level of intoxication than would an average driver; they’ll also face professional consequences that could be career-ending. If you’ve been charged with a New York DWI and are a CDL holder, contact the DWI defense lawyers at Dupée & Monroe to defend you against these serious charges.
How Are CDL Holders Penalized for a DWI?
DWI penalties for all New York drivers are serious, but they’re even more severe for drivers who have a CDL. The average driver will face misdemeanor charges when convicted of driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of at least .08%. Some drivers may be able to obtain a conditional driver’s license after conviction that will allow them to drive to work or school.
In contrast, a CDL holder could face the following consequences:
- CDL drivers begin to face criminal penalties for driving a commercial vehicle while intoxicated with a BAC of .04%.
- After a first DWI conviction, CDL holders could have their licenses revoked for one year. These drivers will also face the other criminal penalties and fines that come with a first-time DWI conviction.
- If the driver’s BAC is under .04% when pulled over, but they do have a measurable amount of alcohol in their system, they will receive an out-of-service order that will last 24 hours.
- CDL holders who refuse to submit to blood testing if suspected of driving drunk will also face a year-long license suspension.
- A second DWI conviction could result in a permanent loss of a CDL.
Keep in mind that the CDL holder does not have to be driving a commercial vehicle at the time that they’re arrested for DWI for these laws to take effect. Even if the driver were driving their personal car or truck when they were pulled over, they can lose their CDL if convicted.
That said, a commercial driver who is suspected of being intoxicated while driving a commercial vehicle may face more severe penalties, such as if they’re intoxicated while hauling hazardous materials. A CDL holder will have their commercial license suspended for a minimum of three years if found driving hazardous materials while intoxicated.
Aggressive Defense Attorneys for CDL Holders Accused of DWI
If you’re a CDL holder who has been arrested for DWI in New York, it is critical that you find seasoned criminal defense attorneys to help you fight these charges. The aggressive and experienced Goshen DWI defense lawyers at Dupée & Monroe have the skills you need in a lawyer when you’re facing serious charges like driving while drunk or under the influence of drugs. Invest in your future by hiring our trustworthy team of Hudson Valley criminal defense attorneys to advocate for you.
For dedicated and effective legal help after an arrest for DWI in New York, contact the seasoned Goshen DWI defense lawyers Dupée & Monroe at 845-294-8900.
