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Understanding BAC Limits for Florida Commercial Drivers

  • Being pulled over is already frustrating. When you’re at work, it can be more complicated. If you’re a commercial driver, your career can affect what blood alcohol content (BAC) limit you’re held to. So, if you’re pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, your limit may be different from that of other drivers.

    As such, you’ll need to know what BAC levels are legal in Florida and what to do if you are pulled over and given a DUI. Speak to a DUI attorney to fight back against BAC limit charges.

     

    Commercial Drivers Have a Different Standard

    When you’re a commercial driver, you’re held to different standards than other drivers. As a trucker or bus driver, you’re navigating in a much bigger vehicle. You’re at risk for much more devastating accidents, which puts you and other drivers in danger.

    As such, your blood alcohol content limits will be much lower. For the average citizen, you’re legally able to drive if you stay under 0.08. For commercial drivers, you’ll be charged with drunk driving if your BAC level is 0.04 or higher.

    As such, you’ll be given the same penalties and consequences that someone with a higher BAC level would. Obviously, this is something you need to stay aware of while on the job.

     

    Penalties for Drunk Driving in Florida

    If you plead guilty when charged with a DUI, the penalties could be severe. Even if this is your first conviction, you could be imprisoned for up to six months, with fines that will range from $500 to $1,000. You may also lose your license for up to 180 days.

    If you lose your license as a commercial driver, that could mean also losing your job. Your penalties will extend into your personal life, then, and they can hurt you more than you might foresee. You’ll be left unable to drive or work, leaving you without the funds to support yourself or your family. With this in mind, instead of just accepting your DUI charges, reach out to a DUI lawyer to see what your options are.  

     

    Seek Help with DUI Charges

    When you’re pulled over for a DUI, there’s a chance that your future could be endangered. Your job depends on your driving, so as mentioned, if your license is suspended or you’re imprisoned, you could lose your job. That could leave you struggling for some time.

    That’s why you need a Tampa DUI attorney from Hersem Law on your side. We understand how difficult fighting a DUI can be for commercial drivers in Florida, and we’ll make sure you have the right representation for your case. We’ll begin with a strategy session, where we’ll discuss your situation and plan the best defense for you.

    Ready to begin? Seek out our firm by calling 813-251-7291 or by visiting our site online.