Commercial drivers in Alabama have a big job. They are tasked with not only navigating exceptionally large vehicles in a manner that is safe, but also ensuring that goods and products are delivered on time and without incident. As such, the duty of care that they owe to others on the road is intensified.
In fact, commercial drivers are held to higher standards in more ways than one. In Alabama, for example, the definition of driving under the influence for non-commercial drivers is operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent. For commercial drivers, this percentage is lowered.
If you have been charged with a DUI as a commercial truck driver in the Yellowhammer State, there is a lot on the line. Call our criminal defense lawyer at Darley Law today for a free consultation about your rights, options, and the consequences you may face.
DUI and BAC Limits for Commercial Truck Drivers in Alabama
As stated above, commercial drivers are held to a different standard than other drivers on the road. In fact, while the BAC legal limit for drivers operating private vehicles is .08, drivers operating a commercial vehicle can be charged for DUI if they have a BAC of .04 percent or above. And what’s more, any amount of alcohol in the blood can result in an arrest and a temporary suspension. And in order to secure a DUI conviction, the prosecution may not even have to prove that a driver had a BAC of .04 percent or above; they may be able to simply prove that the driver was under the influence of alcohol to the degree that they were rendered “incapable of safely driving,” as found in the Code of Alabama Section 32-5A-191.
The Consequences of a Commercial DUI
Being charged with drinking while driving as a commercial driver can carry significant consequences. Potential penalties for a DUI conviction include:
- Up to one year in jail (for a first conviction);
- A large fine;
- The installation of an interlock ignition device (IID); and
- Mandatory alcohol counseling/education or rehabilitation classes.
Of course, in addition to the penalties above, a commercial driver who is convicted for DUI will have their commercial driver’s license revoked. Unfortunately, even if your license is reinstated and you are cleared to drive again, a DUI on your record can make it impossible to find a job in the future. This means that a DUI can be the end of your career as a commercial driver.
How You Can Protect Yourself
If you are charged for DUI as a commercial driver, the best thing you can do to protect your rights and your future is to call the office of Darley Law immediately. When so much is on the line, you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer by your side. We can help you by:
- Explaining to you the charges you are facing;
- Helping you to understand the potential consequences of a conviction;
- Reviewing all evidence held against you by the prosecution;
- Filing motions to have evidence that was unethically or unlawfully obtained, or that is faulty, dismissed;
- Assisting you in building your defense; and
- Negotiating with the prosecution to reach a plea agreement.
Our attorney can also help you to understand what happens next if you are convicted for DUI, such as how to go about reinstating your license and what you can do in terms of retaining your job.
Why Call the Office of Darley Law
Attorney Jason Darley, Esq. of Darley Law extensive experience representing those who have been charged for DUI in Alabama and he has the skillset and knowledge to help ensure that you obtain the most favorable result possible. Our law firm is passionate about prioritizing the needs of our clients, maintains strong relationships with various judges and prosecutors, and has the resources necessary to fully commit to your case.
Schedule a Free Consultation Now
Commercial truck drivers who face drunk driving charges face long-term consequences if they are convicted, including a potential loss of wages, a damaged reputation, and a loss of future opportunities. At the office of Darley Law, our criminal defense and DUI defense lawyer is ready to go to work for you. Schedule a free consultation by calling Darley Law directly at 251-441-7772, or feel free to send us a message or stop by our office in person at your convenience.