Rockville Commercial Vehicle DUI/DWI Attorneys

Experienced Commercial DUI Lawyers Helping Drivers Defend Against Drunk Driving Charges in Rockville, MD

Operating a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Maryland. Commercial drivers face stricter requirements and harsher penalties than other drivers, and a DUI or DWI conviction can lead to the loss of their commercial driver's license (CDL). At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, we provide legal representation for CDL holders, helping them defend against drunk driving charges and protect their careers.

Unique Issues in Commercial Vehicle DUI/DWI Cases

Truck drivers and others who drive commercial vehicles may need to address specific concerns related to DUI or DWI charges. Some of the factors that may affect these cases include:

• Lower BAC Limit: In Maryland, the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) for most drivers is 0.08%. However, for CDL holders operating commercial vehicles, the limit is reduced to 0.04%. This lower limit can increase the likelihood that a commercial driver may be charged with DUI. Even if a driver is below the legal limit, they could still be charged with DWI if a police officer believes they are intoxicated.
• Off-Duty DUI/DWI: A person who is arrested for DUI or DWI while driving a personal vehicle could still face a suspension or revocation of their CDL.
• Increased Scrutiny: Commercial drivers are held to higher standards because of the dangers that large trucks and other commercial vehicles present. Because of the risks of injuries when carrying heavy loads or hazardous materials, CDL holders may face more serious penalties if they are accused of drunk driving.

The Importance of Defending Against CDL DUI/DWI Charges

A DUI or DWI conviction can be very serious for a commercial driver. The suspension or revocation of a commercial driver's license will threaten a driver's career and livelihood. In addition to the loss of employment, income, and future job prospects, a conviction can also lead to high fines, a prison sentence, and other penalties. Immigrants who drive commercial vehicles may struggle financially, and their ability to continue living in the United States may also be affected.

At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, we understand the stakes of these cases. We work to help our clients defend against DUI/DWI charges and protect their commercial driver's licenses. With our knowledge of the laws that affect commercial drivers and our experience defending against criminal charges, we can help our clients resolve their cases successfully.

Unlike many other attorneys, we will not advise our clients to plead guilty unless doing so would be in their best interest. While we may work to negotiate agreements with prosecutors, we will not be bullied or intimidated into accepting results that are unfavorable for our clients. We will do everything we can to minimize the penalties for our clients and help them avoid difficulties that may affect their lives.

When you work with us, we will take the time and effort to make sure you are completely prepared to go to court and defend yourself. We will coach you on where to stand, how to address the judge, and how to appropriately respond when questions are asked. We will make sure you are dressed appropriately, and we can provide a tie if you do not have one. We will also speak passionately on your behalf and argue for an outcome that will allow you to put this difficult experience behind you.

Penalties for CDL DUI/DWI Convictions

For a commercial driver, a DUI or DWI conviction can lead to:

• Prison Sentence: As with other drunk driving charges, a person who is convicted of DUI or DWI while driving a commercial vehicle could be sentenced to jail time. A first-time DUI conviction may carry a sentence of up to one year, while a first-time DWI may lead to a sentence of up to two months. A second DUI may lead to a sentence of up to two years, while a second DWI may carry a sentence of up to one year. Additional DUI or DWI convictions will lead to longer sentences.
• Fines: People convicted of DUI or DWI will usually be required to pay fines, which can range from $500 to $2,000 or even more for a third offense. Because of the dangers of driving commercial vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, courts are more likely to issue higher fines.
• Loss of CDL: A first DUI/DWI conviction will usually lead to a CDL disqualification for one year. If a driver was transporting hazardous materials, the disqualification extends to three years. A second conviction will typically lead to a lifetime CDL disqualification.
• Loss of Employment: Many employers in the transportation industry have zero-tolerance policies for DUI/DWI offenses. Drivers with convictions on their records will be less likely to be hired in the future, even after the reinstatement of a CDL.

Contact Our Rockville, MD CDL DUI/DWI Lawyers

If you are facing DUI or DWI charges as a commercial driver in Maryland, you will need to make sure you have legal help as you defend against a conviction. The Law Offices of Mallon Snyder is here to help you fight these charges and protect your future. Contact us at 301-762-7500 to schedule a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to assist you, and we can help address cases in most parts of Maryland and Washington, D.C.