DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania for Commercial Vehicle Operators

Drunk driving is a serious charge in every state and for all individuals. A DUI in Pennsylvania, however, poses a severe threat to commercial drivers. If convicted, these individuals will suffer more than the average drunk driver. Not only will they be subject to the same possible consequences such as probation, jail, and fines, they will also be forced to either choose between unemployment or a new type of employment.

Suspension in Pennsylvania

Due to strict PA DUI penalties, for a first drunk driving conviction, a person can lose his commercial driver's license (CDL) for up to one year. This penalty applies whether the individual is on duty and driving a commercial vehicle or if he is off duty and driving a private vehicle.

There is one major difference between being convicted on duty and off duty. When a person is stopped while driving a commercial vehicle, the blood alcohol level needed for conviction is much lower. Instead of being allowed to have blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08, an on duty commercial driver can be convicted with a BAC of .04.

Occupational Limited License in Pennsylvania

Drunk drivers in Pennsylvania can often claim undue hardship caused by their driver's license suspension. If they meet the requirements, they may be granted an occupational limited license (OLL), which will allow them to drive to and from work or for tasks associated with their occupational duties.

The OLL is a non-commercial permit and it does not, therefore, entitle a person to drive a commercial vehicle. This means that there is no relief that will allow a truck driver, chauffeur, or anyone requiring commercial driver's license to continue working in their previous capacities.

Second Conviction in Pennsylvania

After a person's CDL suspension, he may have his commercial driving privileges reinstated. If he is convicted of drunk driving again within 10 years, he will once again experience the harsh realities of PA DUI penalties. This time his career change will be permanent because he will be barred from obtaining any CDL in the state for the rest of his life.

Get A Lawyer

Commercial drivers face severe, life-altering consequences if they are convicted of drunk driving. It is imperative for people in this situation to obtain the assistance of an experienced Pennsylvania DUI defense attorney, preferably one who specializes in cases involving commercial drivers. By doing so, it may be possible to have the charges reduced or to beat the case.