Tampa CDL DUI Lawyer

Arrested for a DUI in Tampa while driving a commercial truck? Reach out for help to retain your license and your job with a lawyer who can help you protect your CDL.

When you’re pulled over for driving while intoxicated, it can already be embarrassing. Your license might be at risk, after all. That’s much more dire when you’re a truck driver.

Dealing with a DUI as a commercial truck driver is more complicated than a typical driver’s DUI, so you may need help from a Tampa CDL DUI lawyer. At Hersem Law, we understand that your livelihood may be on the line, so we’re here to help you recover.

Alcohol Limits for Truck Drivers

When you’re pulled over in Tampa, it’s important to remember that truck drivers are held to a different standard. Because you’re a truck driver and your job revolves around driving, you’ll be held to stricter standards, like regular breaks and rest periods. You’ll also be expected to maintain a lower blood-alcohol content, or BAC, level than other drivers.

The BAC level for a typical Florida driver is 0.08 percent, but yours may not exceed 0.04 percent. If you cross this amount, you could suffer serious consequences.

The Penalties Are Harsh

Being convicted of a DUI can affect you for a long time after your case. A DUI is a misdemeanor, which will go on your record. You may also have to pay a fine between $500 and $1,000 for a first conviction alone, as well as spend up to six months in jail. Unfortunately, you could also lose your CDL license.

If you don’t have a degree or experience in another field, losing your commercial driver’s license can be devastating for you and your family. You may be left in severe economic hardship as you seek out other employment, making it harder to recover after your case.

Defending Your CDL Drunk Driving Case

If you’re facing a DUI conviction as a commercial driver and you’re not sure where to begin, you’ll need a strong defense on your side. Your career may be on the line, so your Tampa attorney will need to find the best defense for your DUI case.

For example, you might challenge the field sobriety tests, whether a balance test or a breathalyzer. An officer may not know what your typical balance or abilities are, meaning that they may improperly judge you. While it may be more difficult to challenge the breathalyzer, the police officer may not have been properly trained or certified to use the machine.

Protect Your CDL with a Tampa Lawyer

The best way to defend your case often depends on the specific details of your situation, which makes it tough to decide on your own. You’re just trying to protect your career as a truck driver, which may now be endangered.

Fortunately, a Tampa CDL DUI lawyer at Hersem Law are here to help. We understand that you’re in a tough situation, and we want to help you overcome your case. Reach out for a free strategy session, and we’ll review your case and what we can do to help.

To begin, reach out by calling 813-251-7291 or by completing the following online form.