In the state of Washington, any type of DUI offense – whether it is on the road or even in the water – is taken very seriously. Offenders will face harsh penalties such as high fines, driver’s license revocation, and even jail sentences.

In general, the legal limit for one’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08%, meaning that drivers caught with a BAC level above that number will be charged with DUI. However, for commercial drivers, the legal limit is actually lower. If these motor vehicle operators are caught with a BAC of 0.04% or higher, then they will be charged with driving under the influence.

Are you a commercial driver?

You may be wondering, what exactly is a commercial driver? Am I one? Chances are, if you do not know what a commercial driver is, you are not one. Commercial drivers are those who operate, for commercial purposes, very large vehicles such as 18-wheelers and busses. They must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which is granted only after they have passed certain tests.

Penalties for DUI

Commercial drivers are subject to much harsher DUI penalties than your average Class C license holder. Because they operate such large (and therefore potentially destructive) vehicles, it is imperative that they drive safely. If they are caught driving under the influence, they may face:

• Revocation of commercial driver’s license (possibly for life)
• Mandatory jail time
• Mandatory installation of ignition interlock device
• Fines

If you are a commercial driver who has received a DUI charge, you will need experienced and competent representation to protect you in court.

Contact Us

If you would like to speak with an attorney about your DUI charge, contact the Seattle DUI lawyers at the Cowan, Kirk & Gaston Law Firm. Our experienced attorneys can provide you with sound legal advice and support. Call us today at 1-866-822-1230.