If you are facing a commercial DWI charge in Carrollton, your entire future may be at risk. While Texas does have strict DWI laws, they are even more stringent for commercial drivers.
At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we understand the stress you are under and the implications this charge could have on your future. Our team works to dismiss the charges against you—if possible—or work to reduce the impact a Carrollton commercial DWI charge has on your life.
You cannot afford to risk facing these charges on your own. Call a commercial DWI lawyer in Carrollton from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg at (214) 696-9253 to discuss your case.
Understanding Texas’ Commercial DWI Laws for Commercial and Non-Commercial Drivers
Driving while intoxicated laws outline the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level for drivers and the consequences drivers may face when they exceed these limits.
The state of Texas’ DWI laws outlines separate penalties and legal limits for commercial and non-commercial drivers. For most drivers, the legal BAC is below 0.08. However, the legal limits for commercial drivers are far lower.
The state of Texas is known for having strict DWI laws, even for non-commercial drivers. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the first DWI charge for non-commercial drivers can carry punishments of:
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- Up to 180 days in jail
- Loss of driving privileges for one year
Additional offenses and extenuating circumstances, such as a child in the car, can result in much higher fines, jail time, and license suspension.
As a commercial driver, you may face a DWI charge for the following:
- Driving a commercial motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.04 or more; or
- Driving a non-commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or higher; or
- Refusing to submit to a DWI test, including breathalyzer or blood test
Penalties You May Face After a Commercial DWI Conviction
Commercial drivers convicted of a DWI charge face stricter penalties than non-commercial drivers. For example, a truck driver convicted of a DWI while driving a vehicle with hazardous materials may be disqualified from driving a commercial vehicle for three years.
A second conviction for a Carrollton commercial DUI charge could result in disqualification from holding a commercial license for the rest of your life.
A Carrollton DWI charge should not be taken lightly. If you are facing charges, contact a commercial DWI lawyer in Carrollton from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg at (214) 696-9253 for a free case review.
Possible Defenses for Your Commercial DWI Charge
Depending on the details of your arrest, your lawyer may use one of the following strategies to build your defense.
- Improper stop: The police must have a reason to pull you over before making the stop.
- Improper administration of BAC testing: If the BAC test was not performed in accordance with legal standards, the results may be inadmissible.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions may mimic alcohol consumption, particularly in a roadside test. An allergic reaction or fatigue, for example, may present similar symptoms as intoxication.
- Rights violations: If your rights were violated during the arrest, a lawyer may be able to have your charges dismissed.
Using the defense strategies above, your legal team may be able to secure an acquittal. When that is not possible, a dedicated commercial DWI attorney can work to reduce the consequences of a conviction.
Contact a Commercial DWI Lawyer in Carrollton Today
If you are facing a commercial DWI charge, your livelihood may hang in the balance. You want a legal team who understands how the Texas DWI process works and can fight passionately for your future. Randall B. Isenberg and his team can review the details of your arrest and work to build a defense that works best for your case. Do not leave your future to chance. If you were charged with violation of Texas Code Sec. 49, call our legal team today at (214) 696-9253 to explore your options.