What Happens if I am Charged With a CDL DWI in Texas?

There are few things more damaging to a reputation and a life than receiving a DWI. That being said, if you are a commercial driver and are currently facing DWI charges, as you know, you have even more at stake. We understand how frightening it can be to know that your livelihood is on the line, which is why our experienced Texas criminal defense attorneys are ready to fight for your right to make a living, from beginning to end. Please continue reading and reach out to our firm to learn more about the potential consequences of a CDL DWI in Texas and how we can help you fight them. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What are the consequences of a first offense CDL DWI in Texas?

The first thing you should understand is that the bar for DWIs is higher for commercial drivers in Texas than for standard automobile drivers. To start, you can receive a DWI for operating a commercial vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Content of just .04%, as opposed to the .08% you need to be charged with a DWI operating a standard automobile in Texas. That being said, if you are charged with a first-offense DWI with a CDL in Texas, you are looking at a Class B Misdemeanor that comes with the following very serious penalties:

  • A potential one-year suspension of your commercial driver’s license
  • Up to 180 days in jail
  • A $2,000 fine

You should also understand that if you were arrested for a DWI while operating a commercial vehicle that was transporting hazardous materials, you will most likely lose your commercial driver’s license for an even longer period of time–perhaps up to three years.

Will I lose my CDL forever for a second DWI offense in Texas?

If you are someone who has recently received your second DWI with a commercial driver’s license, there is no question that you must retain the services of an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney today. For a second DWI offense in Texas, you will most likely lose your commercial driver’s license forever. Our firm has what it takes to shield you from those charges, but you must pick up the phone and give us a call today. We are here to help you through every step of the legal process ahead–all you have to do is ask.

Contact our experienced Houston firm

We understand how challenging various legal matters can be, which is why we have dedicated ourselves to helping clients in Texas through a wide array of legal matters, including personal injury law and criminal defense. If you have sustained a serious injury or are facing criminal charges, contact the Gonzalez Law Group today to learn more about how we can help you through every step of the legal process ahead.