If you are facing commercial DUI charges, it is important that you retain the services of a criminal defense attorney. You require a legal advocate in your corner to fight for your rights. Continue reading to discover the consequences of a commercial DUI in Connecticut.
What defines a commercial vehicle in Connecticut?
A commercial vehicle is defined as the following in Connecticut:
- A vehicle with a gross weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds
- A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers
- A vehicle designed to transport 11 or more passengers and used to transport students under the age of twenty-one
- Any vehicle transporting hazardous materials
What defines a commercial DUI in Connecticut?
Individuals with regular licenses can be charged with a DUI if their BAC is .08% or more. However, a driver with a commercial driver’s license who is operating a commercial vehicle can be charged with a DUI if their BAC is .04% or more.
What are the penalties for a commercial DUI in Connecticut?
The DMV can disqualify or suspend your CDL for major offenses including having a BAC of .04% or refusing to take a breath or blood test.
For a first-offense violation, your CDL will be disqualified for one year or three years if you were transporting hazardous materials. However, if this is your second violation, your commercial driver’s license will be disqualified for life, only with the eligibility for reinstatement after 10 years.
If you are facing a CDL disqualification, contact our experienced criminal defense attorney. We understand the weight that a charge like this can have on your future and your livelihood. Contact our firm today to learn how we will fight for your rights in court.
Potential Defenses for a DUI
There are a number of potential defenses that your criminal defense attorney may approach. One of the most common defenses for a DUI is to argue that the stop was illegal. Our firm may argue if the field sobriety test was conducted correctly or not.
If you are facing charges for a commercial DUI, it is important that you reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights in court. Our legal team will advocate for you by exploring all possible avenues of defense. Give our firm a call today to learn how we will assist you in the steps moving forward.
Contact our Firm
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. If you need an attorney who is ready to fight for the financial compensation you deserve, please do not hesitate to contact us to set up a free initial consultation. Our firm deals with matters relating to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.
