CDL DUI DEFENSE Lawyers

Certified driver’s licenses (CDL) are required for all drivers who wish to operate a commercial vehicle in Utah for good reason: accidents involving commercial vehicles usually end in tragedy. Considering all the responsibility commercial drivers hold, it makes sense that there are many CDL DUI related laws and precautions in place to discourage. CUI DUI penalties can be severe and cost you your freedom, your occupation, and your future ability to earn income. With so much at stake, it is important to act quickly and decisively when planning your defense.

If you were recently charged with a CDL DUI, you should seek consolation and representation from an experienced Salt Lake City CDL DUI attorney. For most of the past two decades, Joseph Jardine and Peter Goodall have been approaching case after case with diligence and tenacity. Their experience brings an invaluable asset to your defense. Your CDL DUI cases are not a foregone conclusion; let Jardine Law Offices P.C. fight for you.

CDL DUI AND MAJOR CDL VIOLATIONS

In Utah and across the nation, CDL licenses can only be obtained after passing a certification test that includes portions that test aptitude to operate specific commercial vehicles. After obtaining a CDL, commercial drivers can have their driving privileges revoked or suspended for multiple reasons. Major violations have the potential to revoke a CDL driver’s privileges for years and for life. CDL DUIs have the potential to trigger a major violation in the following ways:

• If a driver refuses a breathalyzer, blood test, or another form of field sobriety test after a traffics stop
• If a driver was operating a commercial vehicle while inebriated by an illicit substance
• If a driver left the scene of an accident
• If a driver tested over half of the legal driving limit for alcohol

All of these are common causes of a CDL DUI, and all of them will trigger a major CDL violation. An initial major violation causes a commercial vehicle driver to lose their CDL for 12 months. A second major CDL violation will cause a CDL license to be revoked permanently

Along with the career ramifications, a CDL DUI has criminal consequences. First-time offenders can expect to lose their license for anywhere between 48 hours and two years. The potential fines range from over $1000 to nearly $2000. Other penalties can include court-order rehab, community service, and probation.