Commercial driving offenses are stricter and harsher for Commercial Driver's License (CDL) holders due to the dangerous nature of their work. They are often subject to additional punishments and even the loss of their CDL certification if they commit a major violation. In fact, a driver's CDL can be disqualified whether or not they are operating a commercial at the time of the violation.

Major Violations

DUI

In Illinois, you can receive a DUI for having an alcohol concentration level of 0.04 or higher when operating a commercial vehicle. Whether you receive a criminal conviction or not, your CDL will be disqualified once you test above 0.04. When operating your non-commercial vehicle, the alcohol concentration is set at 0.08. A driver is disqualified for life if the violation happens more than once, though reinstatement after 10 years may be possible following the completion of state-approved alcohol rehabilitation programs. It's imperative that a commercial driver seek a qualified DUI defense attorney to protect their income and livelihood.

Refusing a Blood or Breath Test

Whether you are driving a commercial or personal vehicle, you are required by law to submit to a chemical examination to test for drugs and alcohol when the authorities request it. If you refuse this test, your Commercial Driver's License will be cancelled under Illinois law.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Illinois law heavily punishes anyone who flees the scene of an accident when they might be at fault. Not only can your Commercial Driver's License be cancelled, but you can also face jail time and expensive fines.

Causing a Death

Your license is disqualified if you are responsible for a fatality due to negligence when driving a commercial vehicle. You will also face additional legal challenges via a wrongful death case that will require the defense of an experienced attorney. 

Major violations typically follow these disqualification terms:

• 1st violation = 1-year disqualification, 3-year, if transporting hazardous materials
• 2nd violation = life disqualification

Don't Lose Your License      

If you are a commercial driver facing legal challenges due to a major violation, contact Wierenga | Chiapelli to discuss your options with one of our attorneys. We are available 24/7 and offer free consultations for your benefit. We understand how being charged with a major violation can devastate not only your career but also your very livelihood. Let us come to your defense.

Contact us today at (847) 749-1131 to schedule your free consultation.