New Jersey requires individuals who operate commercial vehicles to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) because these vehicles often transport passengers or commercial cargo, and the state wants to ensure that commercial drivers are properly trained and qualified to operate them safely. A New Jersey DWI/DUI charge for a commercial vehicle driver is handled differently than a normal DWI and carries stiffer penalties if found guilty, not to mention the effect a conviction will have on a driver’s ability to continue working as a commercial vehicle driver.
In New Jersey, commercial drivers accused of driving while intoxicated may face penalties under both New Jersey’s general DWI statute, N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, and the commercial driver provisions found in N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.13.
A commercial driver operating a commercial motor vehicle may be charged with a DWI with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or greater, which is half the legal limit applicable to most noncommercial drivers. Double punishments are what many CDL licensed drivers face in a DWI situation-punishments attached to their CDL license and punishments attached to their noncommercial license. Penalties for a DWI conviction while driving on a CDL license can include:
- Jail time: Depending on the circumstances, including prior offenses and BAC level, a DWI conviction may result in jail time. Commercial drivers also face serious additional consequences affecting their CDL privileges.
- Fines: Getting a DWI/DUI in New Jersey is expensive. Getting a DWI with a commercial license is even more expensive.
- Loss or suspension of drivers’ license: A minimum one-year CDL license suspension applies in addition to consequences on the noncommercial license. For the noncommercial license, the 2019 DWI reform changed how penalties are structured. First-time offenders with a BAC below 0.15% now face ignition interlock requirements rather than a suspension. A BAC of 0.15% or higher carries a suspension of 4 to 6 months. Multiple offenders face even stiffer penalties on both licenses. As you can see, getting a DWI in these circumstances has a major impact on your personal and professional life. Certain repeat offenses may result in lifetime CDL disqualification.
- Other: Additional penalties may include mandatory participation in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC), ignition interlock requirements, community service, and other court-ordered conditions.
Just because you are charged with a DWI does not mean that you will be convicted of one. With so much on the line, working with an experienced New Jersey DWI/DUI attorney is your best chance of reducing or eliminating the charges against you. Do not let a DWI charge have a larger impact on your life than it should by simply accepting the charges against you. Give the Law Offices of Thomas Carroll Blauvelt, LLC, a call today at 732-440-6887 or email me.
We Are There When You Need Support
A CDL DWI while driving a commercial vehicle is a very serious charge that has major consequences for your personal and professional life if you are convicted of the offense. As a former DWI prosecutor and DWI public defender, I have the experience you want on your side. I have successfully represented many clients facing DWI charges and will work aggressively to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.
If you are dealing with a DWI/DUI with a CDL, give me a call today. I am available seven days a week. I look forward to speaking with you!