Drunk Driving Charges: Getting A Commercial Vehicle OWI In Iowa
Facing an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charge while driving a commercial vehicle in Iowa can have career-altering consequences. A conviction can even lead to the suspension of your commercial driver’s license (CDL), jeopardizing your livelihood. A commercial OWI lawyer can help.
If you are a commercial driver who has been cited with an OWI, DUI or DWI in Iowa, an aggressive OWI defense attorney can protect your rights and your career. I am criminal defense attorney Joseph Vogel. I founded my criminal defense law firm, Vogel Law, PLLC, in Des Moines to provide zealous advocacy on behalf of my clients. As a criminal defense attorney, I am dedicated to preserving my clients’ futures and being available whenever they need me, even in the middle of the night.
Understanding A Commercial OWI In Iowa
Commercial drivers need a special license called a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate large vehicles like trucks and buses. A commercial OWI occurs when a commercial driver is caught operating their vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher. Keep in mind that this is only half the legal limit for noncommercial drivers. This lower threshold reflects the higher responsibility commercial drivers have on the road.
What Are The Penalties For A Commercial OWI In Iowa?
The penalties for a commercial OWI in Iowa are severe. If convicted, you may face fines, jail time, and, most critically, the suspension of your CDL. For a first offense, your CDL will be disqualified for at least one year. If hazardous materials were being transported at the time of the offense, the disqualification period extends to three years. A second offense can result in a lifetime disqualification of your CDL, effectively ending your career as a commercial driver.
How Does A Drunk Driving Charge Affect A Driver’s CDL?
A drunk driving charge can severely impact your CDL. Beyond the immediate suspension, having an OWI on your record can make it difficult to find employment in the future. Employers are less likely to hire drivers with a history of OWI offenses due to the increased risk and insurance costs. Your earning potential and career prospects may be significantly diminished as a result. An experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the idiosyncrasies and potential penalties of Iowa’s OWI laws can advocate on your behalf and help you fight to protect your ability to drive.
Consult A Commercial OWI Lawyer
Are you facing OWI charges? If you are facing a commercial OWI charge, it is crucial to consult a skilled attorney immediately. As an OWI defense lawyer, I am here to provide the aggressive defense you need to prevent a CDL suspension and to protect your CDL and your career. Call me at 515-446-9886 or send me a message through my website.
My clients know that I am available to answer their calls at any time, even in the middle of the night. Don’t wait – reach out today to ask questions and get the help you deserve. I am looking forward to telling you more about how I can help you with your case and protect your career as a commercial driver.