DUI With CDL In Tennessee
Commercial driver’s license holders face much stricter penalties for driving under the influence than those holding non-commercial licenses. In Tennessee, DUI for a CDL holder is considered a major violation, which could result in a one-year disqualification of the driver’s CDL for the first offense—or three years, if hazardous materials were being transported. The second offense will result in a lifetime disqualification.
Different DUI Standards For CDL Holders
In the state of Tennessee, a CDL holder may be charged with DUI if he or she is found driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.04% or higher—a much stricter standard than the normal 0.08 threshold for non-CDL holders. Any CDL holder found operating a commercial vehicle while under the influence of any controlled substance may be charged with DUI.
It should also be noted that for the CDL holder, a second DUI conviction will result in the lifetime loss of the CDL—no matter how far removed from the first conviction the second one occurs. Further, you will have no chance at a restricted commercial driver’s license.
DUI For The CDL Holder In A Non-Commercial Vehicle
It is imperative to understand that your CDL will be suspended even if you are charged with DUI while operating a non-commercial vehicle.
Refusing to comply with Tennessee’s Implied Consent law is also considered a major offense, and will result in the loss of your CDL for one year. The second violation will result in the lifetime loss of your CDL.
Other Penalties
In addition to losing your CDL, a DUI conviction can bring a host of fines and legal fees, as well as court-ordered drug or alcohol abuse counseling or treatment programming.
If you drive a commercial vehicle for a living, a DUI conviction can spell disaster for your career, potentially leaving you jobless and unable to support yourself and your family. With an experienced attorney like Marcos Garza by your side, you may be able to fight the charges down or even have the case dismissed altogether.
The Garza Law Firm Is Here To Help
If you are a CDL holder and find yourself facing a DUI charge in the state of Tennessee, call the Garza Law Firm today to find out how we can help you defend your case—and your livelihood.
Call (888) 680-7554 today to schedule a no-risk consultation, free of charge.
