Driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol is dangerous under any circumstance. If you were charged with a DWI while operating a commercial vehicle, you will face even harsher consequences. Contact our firm today to retain the services of a skilled Virginia criminal defense attorney to discuss your options.
What is a commercial vehicle in Virginia?
In the state of Virginia, drivers of standard vehicles that are caught operating a vehicle for non-commercial purposes with a blood alcohol concentration level of .08 percent and above will face DWI charges.
However, it is important to understand that drivers of a commercial vehicle in the state of Virginia are held to an even higher standard when it comes to driving while intoxicated. For example, a commercial vehicle driver with a blood alcohol concentration as low as .04 percent can be charged with a commercial driver DWI.
If you have been charged, you will need to retain the services of a skilled Virginia criminal defense attorney.
What are the penalties for a commercial driver DWI conviction in Virginia?
Virginia does not take DWI charges lightly. If a commercial driver is convicted of a DWI for having a BAC of .04 percent or above, severe consequences can result. Some examples of the potential penalties include, and are not limited to, the following:
- Commercial vehicle license suspension;
- Potential jail time;
- A large fine;
- Potential requirement to attend an alcohol education class; and
a permanent mark on your criminal record.
If you are someone that makes a living by driving a commercial vehicle, a DWI charge can destroy your career. Even if your ability to legally operate a commercial vehicle is restored after the amount of time you may be prohibited from driving a commercial vehicle, it is doubtful that another company will want to hire a driver with a DWI on their record. This suggests that when you are convicted of a DWI, not only will you have to pay large fines and potentially spend time in jail, but you may also lose your job and your ability to find work in the future permanently.
Contact our firm today to discuss the specifics of your case with our dedicated legal team.
Contact Our Firm
If you live in Virginia and have been charged with a crime, the time to speak with an experienced Richmond criminal defense attorney is now. Led by Attorney James A. Bullard Jr., our firm has fought on behalf of clients facing serious legal penalties for decades. We handle various criminal and traffic cases, including reckless driving tickets, DUIs, violent crimes, drug crimes, and so much more. Contact James A. Bullard Jr. P.C. today so we can begin formulating a comprehensive defense on your behalf.
