DUIs have a large impact on a person’s life. This is especially true with regard to commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. This is because the state of Connecticut views driving as a privilege, not a right. This is especially true of CDLs, which are held to a higher standard due to the increase in training necessary to obtain one and the hazardous or delicate nature of the haul in most of these vehicles.
Whether a CDL holder is transporting hazardous material in a truck or children on a school bus, the cargo is precious and should be treated with care. Obviously, this is not happening if a person is driving under the influence. Because of this, DUIs carry serious penalties for CDL drivers.
In this light, a refusal or failure of a blood alcohol content (BAC) test results in a one-year driver’s license suspension. If a driver gets a DUI while they are on the job and using their CDL, their license suspension will last three years. Further, while operating a commercial vehicle, the BAC test threshold is lowered from .08% to .04%. Finally, a subsequent arrest for DUI or refusal to take BAC test results in a loss of commercial driver’s license for life. This may be challenged after 10 years, with a showing of voluntary completion of an addiction treatment program and good cause.
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It is also important to note that state law is not the only factor to consider as it pertains to CDLs. There are federal rules and guidelines that also come into play. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration oversees these federal rules. These rules include a .04% BAC level for any type of driving and a presumption of guilt if a BAC test is refused. This is, again, due to the large nature of the vehicles involved and the dangerous materials they transport.
A DUI issue greatly affects all drivers, but this is particularly so for CDL drivers. This is because most CDL drivers have such a license for employment purposes, and an inability to drive means an inability to work. If you have a CDL and find yourself in this position, it is important to have a Branford DUI defense lawyer who has worked with CDL clients in the past on your side. To speak with such a lawyer, contact Lady DUI today. We can set up a free consultation in which we can answer your questions, provide additional resources, and fight for you to keep your license.
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