What Are My Options if Arrested for DUI While Driving a Commercial Truck?

Commercial truck drivers in Illinois depend on having a valid driver’s license to earn a living, which means a DUI charge puts a truck driver’s livelihood in jeopardy. If the police arrest you on suspicion of DUI while driving a commercial truck, it’s vital to understand your options.

While you do not have to comply with field sobriety tests, the Illinois implied consent law says you must submit to a chemical blood, breath, or urine test after the police take you into custody. Refusing a chemical test after a DUI arrest is grounds for an automatic 12-month driver’s license suspension for a first offense. Your CDL will also be suspended for 12 months for a first DUI offense.

An Illinois commercial DUI defense lawyer can help you contest the charge. First, they can help you fight the summary driver’s license suspension that will happen if you refuse the chemical test or the test shows you were above the legal limit for commercial drivers (which is a BAC of 0.04 percent). This process is called a Petition to Rescind, and it can help you keep your driving privileges while your criminal case plays out.

Second, a lawyer can help you fight the actual DUI charge and avoid a conviction that could cost you your CDL. For instance, your lawyer can challenge the traffic stop that led to your arrest or see if the police made any errors when conducting or handling the chemical test. With the right legal team on your side, you have a stronger chance of protecting your CDL and your ability to earn a living.

Madelyn Daley & Associates has extensive experience with commercial DUI cases and knows how important it is for you to keep your driving privileges. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.