A DUI conviction can be devastating for anyone, but for commercial drivers, it carries especially severe consequences. The ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) is essential for your livelihood, and losing your commercial driver’s license (CDL) could mean losing your career. At Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC, we understand how much is at stake. Our DUI criminal defense attorneys fight aggressively to help CDL holders protect their licenses and futures. If you are facing DUI charges, contact us immediately at (720) 340-1373.
Colorado’s Strict CDL DUI Laws
The state of Colorado holds commercial drivers to a higher standard than regular drivers. While the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for non-commercial drivers is 0.08%, CDL holders are subject to a much lower threshold of 0.04% when operating a CMV. Even a first-time DUI conviction can lead to an automatic one-year disqualification of your CDL. If you were transporting hazardous materials at the time of the offense, the disqualification extends to three years. A second DUI offense can result in a lifetime disqualification, effectively ending your commercial driving career.
Disqualifying Offenses That Can Impact Your CDL
In addition to DUI or driving while ability impaired (DWAI), Colorado law considers certain offenses as “disqualifying,” meaning they will result in the loss of your CDL. These include:
- Leaving the scene of an accident: Failing to stop after a crash is a serious offense that can lead to CDL suspension.
- Committing a felony while using a vehicle: If you use any motor vehicle in the commission of a felony, you risk disqualification.
- Causing a fatality while operating a CMV: If you are involved in a deadly accident while driving a commercial vehicle, your CDL may be revoked permanently.
- Major traffic violations: Repeated traffic infractions, such as reckless driving, tailgating, or improper lane changes, can also result in CDL suspension.
- Driving without a CDL: Operating a CMV without a valid CDL or driving with a suspended license can lead to serious legal consequences.
Even non-DUI offenses can add up and threaten your CDL. Accumulating multiple “serious violations” within a short period can trigger disqualification, making it critical to fight any charges that could jeopardize your career.
How a DUI Conviction Affects Your Future as a CDL Holder
Beyond the legal penalties, a DUI conviction on your record can make it difficult to secure future employment as a commercial driver. Many trucking companies conduct thorough background checks and have zero-tolerance policies for drivers with DUI offenses. Even if your CDL is reinstated, high-risk insurance premiums may make it financially impossible to return to commercial driving.
If your CDL is your livelihood, you need to take DUI charges seriously. Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC is here to help you navigate the legal system and explore potential defense strategies. We examine every aspect of your case, from the legality of the traffic stop to the accuracy of breath and blood tests, to challenge the evidence against you.
Can You Challenge a DUI Charge and Protect Your CDL?
Yes, and doing so can make all the difference in preserving your career. There are several defense strategies that may be available to you, such as:
- Challenging the validity of the BAC test results
- Proving that law enforcement violated your rights during the arrest
- Questioning the legality of the traffic stop
- Demonstrating that external factors influenced field sobriety test results
Our attorneys at Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC are skilled at identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We understand that losing your CDL means more than just a license—it’s your financial security, your independence, and your future.
Call Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC for Experienced DUI Defense
If you are a CDL holder facing DUI charges in Colorado, don’t risk your career by facing the legal system alone. The sooner you seek legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding a conviction or minimizing the penalties. Contact Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC today at (720) 340-1373 for a confidential consultation. We are ready to fight for you.