Towson Commercial Vehicle DUI Defense Lawyer

Commercial Vehicle DUI Attorney in Towson, MD

Operating a commercial vehicle requires a high level of responsibility, and any violations of traffic laws by commercial drivers can lead to severe consequences. Driving under the influence (DUI) is taken especially seriously. In Maryland, commercial drivers are held to stricter standards than non-commercial drivers due to the potential risks associated with operating large vehicles and transporting goods. A commercial DUI can severely impact a driver's career. Due to the complex legal challenges involved in these cases, skilled legal representation is crucial when defending against DUI charges.

Our experienced legal team has a deep understanding of Maryland's commercial DUI laws and a proven track record of defending drivers in complicated cases. With more than three decades of legal experience, Attorney Kirk Seaman is dedicated to protecting your rights, preserving your CDL, and helping you achieve the best possible outcome to your case.

What Is Commercial DUI in Maryland?

A person operating a commercial motor vehicle may be charged with DUI if they are found to be driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers of commercial motor vehicles is significantly lower than that for non-commercial drivers. In Maryland, a commercial driver can face DUI charges if their BAC is 0.04% or greater, which is half the 0.08 % legal limit set for non-commercial drivers. This lower limit reflects the higher safety standards that apply to commercial drivers due to the potential for injuries when operating large trucks and other commercial vehicles.

Commercial drivers may face DUI charges not only in cases involving alleged alcohol impairment but also in situations where they may be under the influence of controlled substances. Any trace of a drug or medication that impairs a driver's ability to operate their vehicle safely may lead to commercial DUI charges. These may include prescription medications if they cause drowsiness or have other side effects that impair a person's driving capabilities.

Penalties for Commercial DUI

People convicted of commercial DUI in Towson, Maryland may face serious consequences that can have severe and can have long-lasting effects on their career and personal life. These penalties include:

• CDL Disqualification: One of the most immediate penalties for a commercial DUI is the loss of a commercial driver's license. For a first offense, including a conviction for DUI when driving a commercial or non-commercial vehicle, a citation for driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of at least .04%, or a refusal to take a BAC test, a person's CDL can be disqualified for one year. If the driver was allegedly carrying hazardous materials at the time they were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the disqualification period increases to three years. A second offense will result in a lifetime disqualification from holding a CDL, though there may be a possibility of reinstatement after 10 years, depending on the circumstances. Under CDL laws, aProbation Before Judgment is also considered a conviction that will lead to the disqualification of a commercial driver's license.
• Court-Imposed Penalties: Commercial DUI charges can lead to significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and probation. For a first offense, a driver may face fines up to $1,000 and a potential jail sentence of up to one year. A second offense can lead to even harsher penalties, including higher fines and longer jail time. The severity of the penalties will typically depend on whether a person has any prior DUI convictions and whether an accident or injuries occurred while the driver was under the influence. Higher BAC levels may also play a role in determining the appropriate penalties for a commercial DUI conviction.
• Impact on Employment: A commercial DUI can have devastating effects on a driver's employment prospects. Many employers have zero-tolerance policies regarding DUI offenses, and a conviction can lead to immediate termination. Additionally, finding new employment as a commercial driver can be extremely difficult for a person with a DUI on their record.
• Increased Insurance Costs: After a DUI conviction, a driver's insurance premiums are likely to increase significantly. Commercial drivers may find it difficult to obtain the necessary insurance coverage to continue working, and those who do may face prohibitively high premiums that make continuing in the profession financially unfeasible.

Contact Our Towson, Maryland Commercial DUI Defense Attorney

When addressing commercial DUI charges in Towson, Maryland, you do not have to navigate the legal system alone. The consequences of a commercial DUI conviction are too severe to risk going without skilled legal representation. Contact our skilled Towson commercial vehicle DUI defense lawyers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to discuss your case and learn how we can help you protect your rights, your CDL, and your future. Call 410-837-6077 to schedule a free consultation.

The complexities of commercial DUI law require a lawyer who understands the stakes of your case and knows how to build a strong defense. Take the first step toward defending your career and securing the best possible outcome to your situation by giving us a call.