Commercial Truck Drivers (CDL licensing) DUI
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is an essential requirement for those who plan to operate commercial motor vehicles such as buses, semi-trucks, and other large vehicles. A CDL differs from a normal driver’s license in that it’s designed to ensure that the driver has the necessary skills and knowledge to operate these types of vehicles safely and efficiently. Also, CDL holders are held to a higher standard of responsibility and face stricter regulations than non-commercial drivers.
CDL holders face severe consequences if they’re caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In this blog post, we’ll explore the legal implications of a CDL holder’s DUI conviction in Oregon and how an experienced DUI attorney can help protect your rights.
CDL DUI penalties in Oregon
If you’re a commercial driver in Oregon and you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) while operating a motor vehicle, you could face serious consequences that could jeopardize your CDL. In Oregon, there are two types of CDL suspensions for DUI: criminal and administrative.
In a criminal case, a driver has been convicted of DUI while driving a commercial motor vehicle. The penalties for a criminal CDL suspension can include fines, jail time, and a long-term suspension or revocation of your CDL, depending on the severity of the offense.
For an administrative case, a commercial vehicle driver need only fail or refuse a breathalyzer or other BAC test after an officer stops them for suspicion of DUI. As a CDL holder, if you fail or refuse a breath test after an arrest for a DUI, an Implied Consent driver’s license suspension will also impact your CDL. This administrative suspension can result in a one-year CDL suspension for the first offense and a lifetime CDL disqualification for subsequent offenses. It’s important to note that even if you’re not convicted of DUI, you can still face administrative penalties that can impact your CDL.
If you’re facing CDL suspension or revocation due to a DUI in Oregon, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced attorney who can help protect your rights and minimize the impact on your livelihood. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system, build a strong defense, and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case.
Criminal CDL Suspensions
The penalties for a criminal CDL suspension can depend on the circumstances of the offense.
For a first conviction for DUI, you can expect a 1-year CDL suspension with no eligibility for a hardship permit. However, if you were transporting hazardous material at the time of the offense, the suspension period increases to 3 years without eligibility for a hardship permit.
If you receive a second or subsequent conviction for DUI, you face a lifetime suspension of your CDL with no eligibility for a hardship permit. This can have a significant impact on your ability to earn a living as a commercial driver.
Avoid Impacting your CDL
As a commercial driver in Oregon, your CDL is crucial to your ability to earn a living. If you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) while operating a commercial motor vehicle, you face severe penalties that can impact your CDL.
To avoid getting your CDL suspended, prioritize safety on the road and follow all applicable laws and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, maintaining a safe following distance, and never driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
If you’re pulled over for suspicion of DUI, remember that as a CDL holder, you are held to a higher standard of responsibility and face stricter regulations than non-commercial drivers. Refusing a breathalyzer or other blood alcohol content (BAC) test can result in an administrative suspension of your CDL, even if you’re not convicted of DUI.
By taking safety seriously, following all applicable laws and regulations, and seeking legal representation if you need it, you can help avoid getting your CDL suspended and continue to earn a living as a commercial driver in Oregon.
Hire a DUI lawyer with a successful track record in Oregon
At Russell Law Group, we approach your DUII defense with a combination of empathy, strength, and meticulousness. We dedicate ourselves to comprehensively understanding all aspects of your case, listening carefully to your case, and examining every detail. Our team analyzes your arrest for any procedural lapses or police errors that could potentially result in the dismissal of your charges. We leave no stone unturned in our efforts to enroll you in the DUII diversion program and fight tirelessly to protect your rights with unwavering determination.
Our team is dedicated to advocating for your rights and striving to achieve the optimal outcome for your individual circumstances. You can schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Pendleton, OR by calling (541) 325-4936 or by reaching out to us online.
Recent Comments