How do DUI penalties differ for commercial drivers?

If you have a Pennsylvanian commercial vehicle driver’s license and a job that involves driving, you have a lot at stake if you get convicted of a DUI-related crime. In fact, you have much more at stake than anyone else on the road who isn’t also a commercial driver.

The regulations for commercial vehicle drivers, according to FindLaw, can be strict due to the number of people commercial drivers impact. You could impact your own passengers, as well as other drivers on the road around you. Your own employer could suffer, because your actions will reflect on your parent company. 

Due to the wider range of influence you have as a commercial driver, you could also face stiffer penalties if convicted. For example, your license could be barred for a longer period of time. You may not be able to get back into commercial driving work. You could face steeper fines. Not to mention the fact that you will face repercussions from work as well, including likely being let go from your position.

The tolerance for intoxication is also relatively low. In many states, the blood alcohol content limit (BAC) for commercial vehicle drivers is .04 percent, which is half the amount of .08 percent which is used for personal vehicle drivers.

If you have been involved in any sort of accident and are now being faced with DUI-related charges, consider talking to an attorney for more information. They can help you decide what move to make next, which can be crucial to maintaining your livelihood.