What is a DWI and Why Does it Matter for Commercial Drivers?
A DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated, is a serious offense in Texas that can have significant consequences, especially for commercial drivers. Commercial drivers are held to higher standards when it comes to operating a vehicle. The law in Texas has stricter regulations for commercial drivers compared to non-commercial drivers, meaning that a DWI charge for a commercial driver is far more serious. A commercial driver is anyone who holds a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and operates a vehicle like a truck, bus, or delivery vehicle as part of their job. In Texas, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for non-commercial drivers is 0.08 percent. However, for commercial drivers, the BAC limit is much lower. If a commercial driver is caught with a BAC of 0.04 percent or higher, they can be arrested and charged with a DWI. Even if you are under the legal limit for a non-commercial driver, you can still be charged if you exceed the stricter limit for commercial drivers.Immediate Consequences of a DWI Charge for Commercial Drivers
If a commercial driver is arrested for DWI, the consequences can be severe. The first thing you should know is that your commercial driver’s license could be suspended. Even if this is your first offense, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) could suspend your CDL for a minimum of one year. This suspension can have a huge impact on your ability to work and earn a living. If you hold a job that relies on you driving, such as a truck driver, delivery driver, or bus driver, this suspension could put your job at risk.
PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS AND FUTURE
Criminal Defense Attorney
Douglas Wilder
Attorney Douglas Wilder has always stayed on the cutting edge of training and attending seminars to ensure he has the most knowledge he can to represent his clients. This has led him to be recognized as one of the Best Lawyers under 40 in Dallas by D magazine, and also recognized as a Super Lawyer for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, & 2023. .
Long-Term Consequences of a DWI Charge for Commercial Drivers
The long-term consequences of a DWI charge can be far-reaching. In Texas, commercial drivers are required to follow strict regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). If you are convicted of a DWI, it could result in your inability to continue working in the commercial driving industry. Even if you have had a clean driving record for years, a DWI conviction can cause permanent damage to your career. One of the most serious long-term consequences is the disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle. If you are convicted of a DWI in Texas, you may be disqualified from operating a commercial vehicle for up to one year for a first offense. If you are convicted of a DWI while driving a commercial vehicle that was carrying hazardous materials, the disqualification period could be as long as three years.
Better call Doug!! Doug is the best lawyer you can find for DWI or DUI cases in Dallas. I read many reviews before choosing Doug for representing my case. Doug handled DWI and DUI cases for last 25 years, He has good relationships with DA office and is Well respected in the community. I have peace of mind with plea bargain today for my case. He also won other case filed on my license suspension. Amy (Paralegal) will help you through out the case. She is very persistent and detailed about the case details. You will never go wrong for chosing Doug. Goodluck. !!”
- Anil Lingutla
I was charged with a DWI and resisting arrest. Knowing Mr. Wilder previously, I went with the Wilder Law Firm to help me out. Their office was able to get my resisting charge thrown out and reduced my DWI charge for me. This result and lesser sentence allows me a better opportunity to recover from the mistake I made. I appreciate Megan being so kind and patient with me during my process. I would recommend her 10/10."
- Isaac Harrell
After being arrested for DUI, I contacted Doug Wilder upon recommendation. Mr. Wilder and his entire staff were amazing with their professional handling of my case from start to finish. Every time I rang with questions someone answered the phone, no long waits for a return call. This was important to me considering a DUI is so stressful. Mr. Wilder and his staff not only got my case dismissed but also guided me through the process and offered utmost care. I cannot thank them enough and highly recommend the Wilder Firm."
- JJ Canter