A DUI charge is serious in and of itself, but if you have a CDL, you are likely facing more serious charges and penalties. Oklahoma does not take these offenses lightly and can impose jail time, fines, and revoke your CDL. An Oklahoma CDL DUI defense attorney from Fabian & Young can review your case and determine how to proceed based on the details of your alleged offense.
Understanding CDL DUI Offenses
If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you are expected to exercise a greater level of care to ensure safety while out on the road. This means that there is less tolerance for unsafe activities, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to Oklahoma Statute §47-6-205.2, CDL drivers can be charged if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.04%. This is lower than the 0.08% BAC limit imposed on Oklahoma motorists who carry a standard-issue driver’s license.
CDL drivers can cause greater harm to others if they cause an accident, which is why they are held to different standards and punished more severely for these offenses in Oklahoma. CDL drivers are also expected to submit to a breath test if stopped by law enforcement for suspected impaired driving, and refusing the test can negatively impact your situation and the outcome of your case. Additionally, drunk driving puts a person’s CDL at risk, even if they are driving their personal vehicle
Penalties for a CDL DUI
If you are charged with a CDL DUI, you can be facing serious and extensive penalties. A DUI can result in a minimum 1-year disqualification of your CDL license if you have a BAC higher than 0.04% or have refused to submit to a breathalyzer test. This can be increased to 3 years if you transport hazardous materials. You could also lose your CDL completely for multiple DUI offenses.
In addition to losing your CDL privileges, you could also be sentenced to fines or jail time if convicted of a CDL DUI offense. First-time offenders may be required to pay up to $1,000 in fines and serve a jail sentence ranging between 10 days and a year. Fines and prison time can increase with each subsequent offense.
Your Rights in a CDL DUI Case in Oklahoma
If you were arrested for a CDL DUI, you have the right to remain silent and hire a lawyer to represent you throughout your case. They can build a strong defense to challenge procedures or evidence used in your case. They can also help you navigate the administrative hearing process so you can keep your license. A lawyer may also be able to negotiate alternative sentencing options to help reduce the overall impact of these charges on your life
Do Not Face Charges Without Legal Representation
To fight a CDL DUI arrest, it is essential that you hire a lawyer to represent you throughout all legal proceedings. With your freedom and personal and professional career on the line, you need an experienced lawyer who can protect your rights and advocate for your charges to be reduced, dropped, or acquitted. The team at Fabian & Young is committed to the success of your case and will fight tirelessly for you.