If you transport cumbersome or hazardous items for a living, you likely know the importance of a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Without this document, you cannot do your job without risking heavy fines or even jail time.
One of the most common threats to a CDL is the driving under the influence (DUI) charge. While you may understand some of the conditions surrounding drunk driving for the average person, you may not know of the rules and penalties that are unique to commercial drivers.
Special rules
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for most drivers in Pennsylvania is .08%. However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set a stricter precedent for people driving vehicles that need a CDL. If you fall in this category, you can get a DUI for having a BAC of .04% or higher. This means that even one drink can get you in trouble with the law.
Special penalties
After your first DUI offense, you can lose your CDL for a year. The suspension can carry on for three years if you are transporting hazardous materials such as dry ice or corrosives. If anything happens to your license, you will have to notify your employer the next business day. Keep in mind that your employer may face criminal charges for having you drive without a working license.
Safety should be a top priority if you are constantly driving with loads of materials. Staying sober can help you avoid problems on the road and secure your job.
