Driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses in New Jersey are somewhat common. Some people refer to these offenses as driving under the influence (DUI) cases. Regardless of the terminology used, a drunk driving charge can produce life-altering consequences.
The criminal penalties for a DWI or DUI conviction can include jail time, probation and significant financial consequences. A driver’s license suspension is also a standard penalty. For those with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) that they must maintain for employment, a DWI conviction can cause significant career setbacks.
Does a DWI lead to a CDL suspension?
A driver with a CDL is at risk of losing their commercial driving privileges after any DWI conviction. They do not need to face charges for an infraction while operating a commercial vehicle. Charges based on an arrest while they drove a passenger vehicle can also impact a professional’s CDL. They could also get arrested for a DWI while operating a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher.
Typically, a first DWI conviction leads to ineligibility for a CDL for a year. Regardless of the personal driver’s license penalties imposed by the courts, the professional cannot operate a commercial vehicle that requires a CDL for 12 months after a conviction. After a second DWI as a CDL holder, the motorist may become permanently ineligible for a CDL.
While anyone may want to fight back against DWI or DUI charges, those who drive for a living have a greater need to defend themselves than most. Reviewing what led to a DWI arrest with a skilled legal team can help those who drive professionally protect their licenses and their career prospects.