CDL DWIs in Texas

 Posted on March 04, 2024 in DUI/DWI

While getting a DWI and losing your driving privileges temporarily can be an enormous hassle for any driver, the problem may be much worse if you have a commercial driver’s license. You likely need your driving privileges not just to get to and from work, but to actually do your job. Being unable to work can cause serious financial problems not only for you, but for your entire family. CDL holders have much more to lose than most people if they are convicted of a DWI. Even getting arrested on suspicion of DWI can cause you to instantly lose your job and have your personal and commercial licenses suspended. If you are a CDL holder who drives for a living, it is important to contact an experienced Houston, TX, DWI attorney as soon as you are arrested.

Lower B.A.C. Limits for CDL Holders

Most drivers can be convicted of a DWI if their B.A.C. was over 0.08% while they were operating a vehicle. CDL drivers are held to a higher standard. People who hold a CDL can be convicted of a DWI for having a B.A.C. over only 0.04%. This may mean that, unlike most people, you cannot drive home after having just 2 or 3 drinks over dinner. You would need to exercise much greater caution than most drivers, as you might not feel drunk or look drunk to others at this B.A.C.

What if I Was Off the Clock When I Was Pulled Over? 

Unfortunately, you are held to the same standard even if you are not on the job and are driving your own car. This fact can be surprising to some drivers. While clearly, being even slightly under the influence of alcohol while driving an 18-wheeler can be quite dangerous, you might have thought that you would be held to normal standards when driving a normal, non-commercial vehicle. However, this is not the case.

Protecting Your Career After a DWI Arrest

You must take certain steps quickly to protect your career after being charged with a DWI, even if it happened off the clock. Your employer may or may not choose to fire you even if you are able to hang on to your CDL. Having your driving privileges restored immediately is essential. You will also need to inform your employer of your charges right away, as not telling them and having them find out on their own is likely to be far worse.

Contact a Houston, TX, CDL DWI Attorney

Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. is committed to helping CDL holders protect their careers after a DWI arrest. Our experienced Harris County CDL DWI lawyers will take prompt action to guard your license. Contact us at 713-229-8333 for a complimentary consultation.