Due to the nature of the work, commercial drivers in Boston and throughout the state of Massachusetts are held to a higher standard than are regular drivers. In fact, not only are the requirements for receiving a commercial driver’s license more stringent, but commercial drivers can face more serious penalties if they break the law. If you’re a commercial driver in Boston, here’s what you need to know about DUI laws, what the consequences are if you’re charged with a DUI, and what happens next–

What Constitutes a DUI for a Commercial Driver in Massachusetts?

While the blood alcohol concentration level for a driver of a standard passenger vehicle is .08 percent in Massachusetts, for commercial drivers, that level is lowered to just .04 percent – as few as one to two drinks for some drivers. Further, even if a commercial driver does not have a BAC of .04 percent, they can still be charged with a DUI if they are “under the influence,” which means that the consumption of an alcoholic beverage or any other intoxicating or mind-altering substance has led to impairment. This is per Massachusetts General Laws Section Chapter 90, Section 24.

What Happens if You’re Convicted of a DUI as a Commercial Driver?

Being charged with a DUI offense is one thing; being convicted is another. Indeed, you can face penalties for the DUI issued by the state (i.e. a fine or jail time), as well as the loss of your job. Penalties for a first-time DUI offense include:

• Standard driver’s license suspension of up to one year;
• Fine of between $500 and $5,000;
• Jail time of up to one year;
• Loss of your commercial driver’s license for at least one year, or three years if your job involves the transportation of hazardous materials; and
• Loss of your job.

Getting a DUI can make it hard for you to get a job again in the future, even once your license has been reinstated. Note that for a second DUI offense in Boston, your commercial driver’s license can be revoked for life (after 10 years, you may be eligible to apply for reinstatement).

Drinking and Driving – It’s Just Not Worth It

For commercial drivers in Boston, drinking and driving just isn’t worth it; the risk is too high. You could lose your license and your source of income, leaving you with few opportunities moving forward.

If you have been charged with a DUI as a commercial driver, one of the best things that you can do is to seek legal counsel immediately. Working with a qualified attorney may be the difference between you keeping your license and your job or losing both permanently.

Call The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski Today

To learn more about a DUI as a commercial driver in Massachusetts, call our Boston DUI attorney at The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Send us a message or reach our law firm at (978) 397-0011.