Connecticut DUI Lawyers for Commercial Drivers

Stringent Standards for Commercial Vehicle Operators

In Connecticut, the laws with respect to alcohol consumption and commercial vehicle operators are different than for those driving passenger vehicles. Commercial drivers are held to much more stringent standards, even if they are not driving while fulfilling their employment duties.

While the legal blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.08% for non-commercial vehicle drivers, this limit is reduced to 0.04% for commercial vehicle drivers. Commercial drivers who have 0.08% or more alcohol in their system are said to have elevated blood alcohol concentrations, and may face even more serious penalties.

Penalties for Commercial DUI

Those with a commercial driver’s license face disqualification from driving a commercial motor vehicle for a year if he or she:

• Had a BAC of .04% while driving a commercial vehicle
• Had a BAC of .08% while driving any kind of vehicle
• Refused a BAC test while driving any kind of vehicle
• Has been convicted of a DUI

First Offense Commercial DUI

If you have been arrested and charged with a commercial DUI, you risk the following:

• Loss of license for one year
• 90-day suspension on your vehicle

While Connecticut does have a diversionary program called the Alcohol Education Program for first-time offenders, CDL holders are now prohibited from enrolling in it. Because of this, it is absolutely essential to retain the services of knowledgeable Connecticut DUI attorneys to fight the charges and help you keep your CDL license.

​​​​​​Multiple Offense Commercial DUI

Commercial drivers who commit two or more commercial DUI offenses risk a permanent CDL revocation, though they may be able to get their license back if they meet certain conditions. One can reinstate a commercial driver’s license after 10 years if they voluntarily enroll in and successfully complete a substance abuse treatment program that is established and operated by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, operated through a licensed substance abuse treatment facility, or an equivalent program offered out-of-state.

Fighting to Help You Keep Your Commercial Drivers License

At Tomeo Sills, LLC, our Connecticut DUI lawyers have an in-depth knowledge of how to handle a wide range of DUI cases, including those involving commercial drivers. If your driving privileges and job future are at stake, it is crucial to act immediately. We have 64 years of collective experience in this field and the invaluable resources one would find at a large law firm with the personalized attention of a small firm. Don’t let a DUI ruin your career or future.