DUI Defense Lawyer for Commercial Driver's License Holders in Joliet

Will County CDL Drunk Driving Arrest Attorney

Most people who maintain a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) rely on their CDL for their livelihood. This includes delivery drivers, over-the-road truckers, bus drivers, and many others. Under Illinois law and federal guidelines, CDL holders are generally held to a higher standard regarding roadway safety compared to non-commercial drivers. At the Law Office of Eric J. Blatti, P.C., we understand that a charge of driving under the influence (DUI) can be devastating to a CDL holder. If you are facing charges, our experienced firm is ready and willing to help you.

Skilled DUI Attorney Who Knows the Law

For the vast majority of drivers aged 21 and over, Illinois law sets the legal limit for blood-alcohol content (BAC) at 0.08. When operating a commercial vehicle such as a tractor-trailer, bus, or dump truck, a CDL holder's BAC must be less than 0.04. The more stringent standard is intended to promote safe driving habits among those who earn a living on the roadways of Illinois. The consequences for violating the standard are more severe for CDL holders as well.

Statutory Summary Suspensions and CDL Disqualification

Illinois law provides that drivers who fail or refuse BAC testing when they are arrested on suspicion of DUI will have their driving privileges suspended automatically by the Secretary of State's Office. The suspension is called a "statutory summary suspension," and the length of the suspension depends on whether the driver failed or refused the test and whether or not it is a first offense.

A CDL holder who receives a statutory summary suspension will have his or her CDL privileges suspended for one year for a first offense, regardless of whether the incident occurred in a private or commercial vehicle. CDL holders who transport hazardous materials may face a disqualification of three years for a first offense. A second offense will result in a lifetime disqualification of CDL privileges. These disqualifications may still apply even if the driver is not convicted of driving under the influence.

Plainfield DUI Lawyer Protecting Your Rights

At the Law Office of Eric J. Blatti, P.C., we understand how important it is for you to stay on the road, especially when you earn your living by driving a commercial vehicle. When you are facing DUI charges as a CDL holder, we are prepared to fully investigate the circumstances of your arrest, processing, and BAC testing. We will look for any and all information that can be used in building your defense and minimizing the negative effects on your life.

If appropriate, we are prepared to negotiate with prosecutors to have the charges against you reduced or eliminated completely. However, we also have the knowledge and skills to take your case to trial and to protect your interests in the courtroom.

Contact Us Today

To learn more about our firm and how we can help you with DUI charges as a CDL holder, contact our office. Call 815-744-2500 for a free consultation with a member of our legal firm today. We serve clients in Joliet, Romeoville, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Shorewood, Lockport, Will County, and surrounding areas.