CDL DUI

Savannah CDL DUI Attorneys

Helping You Protect Your Commercial Driver’s License

We all rely on commercial drivers. They keep our economy humming as they transport goods and materials. However, commercial drivers are held to a higher standard when facing DUI charges. A commercial driver convicted of a DUI faces serious consequences with substantial impacts on their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Commercial drivers facing charges deserve a strong legal defense from an attorney experienced in DUI cases.

There are numerous ways DUI tests can be wrong. Before drivers just plead guilty, they should seek help from the experienced lawyers in our Savannah office. Scheer, Montgomery & Call, P.C. has been serving the people of Chatham County and beyond for over 15 years. Our dedicated legal team includes DUI attorneys with an even longer track record, as well as those who have worked in law enforcement and fully understand that the system isn’t perfect.

Contact our law office today to schedule a complimentary initial consultation, during which we will assess your case and determine the available legal options.

What are the CDL DUI Thresholds in Georgia?

Commercial drivers in Georgia face stricter standards for DUI charges compared to regular drivers. While non-commercial drivers are subject to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08%, the threshold for CDL holders is significantly lower at 0.04%.

Georgia’s “per se” DUI law enforces this strict limit, meaning that if a CDL driver’s BAC registers at or above 0.04%, they can face charges regardless of whether impairment is visibly apparent. The CDL threshold applies whether the driver is operating their personal or commercial vehicle.

Prosecutors often try to make examples of CDL holders who have been charged with DUI to warn others not to repeat the same behavior. The most effective way to avoid a commercial DUI conviction is to hire a lawyer who can provide the legal representation you need to obtain a favorable outcome for your case. You only have a short window of time to avoid a license suspension, so you must act now to protect your career and livelihood.

What DUI Defense Legal Services Do You Offer to Clients?

Scheer, Montgomery & Call, P.C. offers a wide range of DUI-related services to our clients. When you come to us for help, our goal is to help you avoid a DUI conviction. Services we offer include:

  • Aggravated DUI
  • CDL DUI
  • DUI Accidents
  • DUI Field Breath & Blood Tests
  • DUI License Suspensions
  • Felony DUI
  • Multiple DUIs
  • Underage DUI

Get the Legal Help You Deserve

Let us help you navigate your legal challenges. Schedule a no-obligation consultation with our experienced attorneys today, and take the first step toward justice.

What are the Penalties for CDL DUI Convictions?

A first offense alone can result in DUI penalties that include:

  • License Disqualification: A mandatory one-year suspension of your commercial driver’s license (CDL) will be imposed
  • Fines: Financial penalties for a CDL DUI are substantial, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000
  • Jail Time: Even for a first offense, a defendant may be sentenced to up to 12 months in jail. The potential sentence will depend on factors that include BAC level, prior offenses, and whether the incident resulted in an accident
  • Mandatory Treatment Programs: CDL holders may be required to complete DUI risk reduction programs or substance abuse treatment, often at their own expense
  • Community Service: A CDL DUI conviction could get you 40 hours of mandatory community service
  • Ignition Interlock: This is a device installed in your vehicle that requires you to pass a breathalyzer before the car starts. It may be required for your personal vehicle and installed at your expense

DUI consequences can become more severe for repeat offenders. For example, your CDL license could be permanently revoked for a second DUI charge. The best way to protect against a license suspension and other penalties is to hire a lawyer who will fight to help you win your case.

The Difference Is in Our Dedication

The Scheer, Montgomery & Call P.C. Promise

  • Integrity in Every Action:
    The foundation of excellent legal work is built on honesty, transparency, and ethical practices, ensuring that your case is handled with the utmost respect and professionalism.
  • Committed to Delivering Results:
    We go beyond expectations to achieve successful outcomes, leveraging our deep expertise in various practice areas to fight for what’s best for you, whether through negotiation or trial.
  • Your Success, Our Priority:
    We put our clients first, dedicating ourselves to understanding your unique needs and providing personalized legal solutions that align with your goals, every step of the way.
  • Decades of Trusted Legal Experience:
    With over 40 years of combined legal experience, Scheer, Montgomery & Call, P.C. brings in-depth experience and proven strategies to fight for your rights and secure the best possible outcomes.

What are the Career Consequences of a CDL DUI Charge?

The ripple effects of a CDL DUI conviction can be devastating to a commercial driver’s career. A DUI not only results in immediate disqualification of the license but also creates long-term hurdles for retaining or regaining employment in the trucking or transportation industry. Many employers enforce zero-tolerance policies for DUI offenses, particularly for roles involving the operation of heavy machinery or transporting goods.

Even after the disqualification period ends, drivers may still struggle to find new employment due to the permanent record of the offense. A DUI conviction signals a lapse in judgment to potential employers. Many trucking companies opt not to hire drivers with such violations, citing concerns for public safety and the potential for increased insurance costs. Keep in mind that this is in addition to the higher insurance costs the driver is likely paying for their vehicle due to the DUI conviction.

The path to career revival can be arduous for those seeking to restart their careers. Drivers may need to complete additional training, earn reinstatement through costly programs, and potentially agree to heightened monitoring through the use of ignition interlock devices or employer oversight.

At best, a CDL DUI conviction makes a driver’s life a lot harder. At worst, it ends their driving career. Getting strong legal representation is imperative.

Honest Representation When You Need It Most

Our lawyers pride themselves on being candid with clients, and we won’t sugarcoat it—if you or someone you love is facing a CDL DUI charge, they are facing some real trouble. When you come to us for help, we will thoroughly assess your case and inform you of your options. If we don’t think it’s winnable, we’ll tell you that upfront.

However, suppose there’s even a narrow path to gaining your acquittal or mitigating the consequences. In that case, we will work to craft a solid legal defense strategy to protect your driving privileges and freedom, allowing you to resume your life. We’ll leverage all of our experience and knowledge of the system on your behalf.

We serve clients throughout Chatham, Bulloch, Liberty, and Effingham Counties. Call our Savannah office today at (912) 233-1273.