What Will Happen to My CDL if I Cause a Drunk Driving Accident in Jackson, MS?
When the operator of a commercial truck causes an alcohol-related accident, he or she will be faced with many consequences, including having their CDL suspended or revoked.
While it is illegal for any driver 21 years of age or older to operate their vehicle with a BAC (blood alcohol content) level of .08 or higher, the law speaks differently to CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) holders. In the State of Mississippi, it is illegal for an individual who is 21 years of age or older who operates a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to get behind the wheel of a commercial truck or bus with a BAC level of .04 or higher [Source: The Missouri Department of Revenue]. The BAC limit drops to .02 if the driver is under the age of 21. Should a CDL holder violate Mississippi’s DUI laws and cause a drunk driving accident, he or she will be faced with the consequences the crime carries with it.
So, what are the consequences a CDL holder in MS will likely face when convicted of causing a drunk driving collision?
When a CDL holder is caught operating a commercial motor vehicle with a BAC level of .04 or higher, he or she shall have their CDL suspended or possibly even revoked for a period of one year or more depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. When a CDL holder refuses to submit to a chemical test when requested by law enforcement after having engaged in an alcohol-related collision, that driver is also subject to having their CDL suspended for a period of one year. Now, these suspension periods apply to CDL holders who have not been charged with any other offenses and it is their first time being charged with DUI.
In the event the driver was engaging in other illegal behavior such as speeding, following too closely, operating a vehicle that has an out-of-service order issued against it, etc., the revocation or suspension period will likely increase.
Can a CDL holder still operate a vehicle after having caused a drunk driving accident?
The Missouri Department of Revenue says that a CDL holder whose license was suspended or revoked as a result of drunk driving cannot operate a CMV during the timeframe their privileges have been suspended. Certain drivers, however, may be entitled to receiving limited driving privileges that would permit them to continue driving a non-commercial vehicle for employment or other specified reasons during the time their CDL has been suspended or revoked. Now, because the state frowns heavily upon CDL holders who are charged with DUI, the likelihood of being granted limited driving privileges is rather slim.
Who should I talk to if I recently caused an alcohol-related accident in Jackson, MS while operating a commercial motor vehicle?
If you caused a drunk driving accident and are at risk of losing your CDL, you need to contact a DUI accident attorney in Jackson, MS as soon as possible.
It would be in your best interest to consult with a drunk driving accident lawyer in Jackson, MS. If you are looking to have someone working on your side and protecting your interests and freedom as DUI’s generally carry jail time, contact DUI accident lawyer William E. Ballard today.
You can reach Ballard Law, PLLC at:
108 S. President Street
Jackson, MS 39201
769-572-5111
Website: www.ballardlaw.ms
