A DUI charge can be devastating for anyone, but for commercial drivers, the stakes are even higher. A conviction can lead to the loss of your CDL, your livelihood, and your ability to provide for your family. If you're a CDL holder facing DUI charges in South Carolina, you need an experienced CDL DUI lawyer who understands the unique challenges you face.
At Joe Good Law, we have a proven track record of successfully defending CDL drivers against DUI charges. We know the ins and outs of South Carolina DUI law, and we'll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.
CDL DUI Penalties and Consequences in South Carolina
In South Carolina, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%, which is significantly lower than the 0.08% limit for non-commercial drivers. If you're convicted of DUI with a BAC of 0.04% or higher, you'll face serious penalties, including:
- Loss of your CDL for at least one year
- Fines and jail time
- Increased insurance premiums
- Difficulty finding employment in the trucking industry
These penalties can have a devastating impact on your life. That's why it's crucial to have an experienced CDL DUI lawyer on your side.
How a CDL DUI Lawyer Can Help Your Case
A skilled CDL DUI lawyer can help you in a number of ways, including:
Protecting Your Career and CDL License
When your career is on the line, you need a lawyer who will fight aggressively to protect your rights and minimize the impact of a DUI charge. At Joe Good Law, we have a proven track record of success in defending CDL holders against DUI charges. We will:
- Thoroughly investigate your case: We will examine every detail of your arrest, including the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing procedures, to identify any potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
- Challenge the evidence against you: We will work to suppress any evidence that was obtained illegally or in violation of your constitutional rights.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor: We will advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options that may allow you to keep your CDL.
- Represent you in court: If necessary, we will take your case to trial and fight to prove your innocence.
Common DUI Defenses for CDL Drivers
There are a number of potential defenses that may be available in your CDL DUI case, including:
- Improper traffic stop: If the police officer did not have a valid reason to stop your vehicle, any evidence obtained as a result of the stop may be inadmissible in court.
- Inaccurate field sobriety tests: Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by a number of factors, including fatigue, nervousness, and medical conditions.
- Faulty breathalyzer results: Breathalyzer machines can produce inaccurate results if they are not properly calibrated or maintained, or if the test is not administered correctly.
- Rising blood alcohol defense: If you consumed alcohol shortly before driving, your BAC may have been rising at the time of the test, and you may not have been over the legal limit when you were actually driving.
How CDL DUI Differs From Regular DUI
CDL DUI cases are different from regular DUI cases in a number of ways. The lower BAC limit for commercial drivers means that even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a DUI conviction. Additionally, the penalties for CDL DUI are much harsher than the penalties for regular DUI. That's why it's important to have a lawyer who understands the nuances of CDL DUI law.
Immediate Steps to Take After a CDL DUI Charge
If you've been charged with a CDL DUI, it's important to take immediate action to protect your rights and your future.
- Contact a CDL DUI lawyer: The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
- Gather evidence: Collect any evidence that may be helpful in your defense, such as witness statements, dashcam footage, or medical records.
- Do not speak to the police or the prosecutor without an attorney present: Anything you say can be used against you in court.
Contact Attorney Joe Good Today
At Joe Good Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by CDL holders charged with a DUI. We're committed to providing aggressive and effective legal representation to protect your rights and your livelihood. If you're facing a CDL DUI charge in South Carolina, don't wait to get the help you need.
Your career is on the line - take action now. Contact us today at 843-412-1401 for a free consultation and let us fight for your future.
