The Responsibility of Maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License

In order to operate a heavy or large motor vehicle, a person needs a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The federal government established the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 to stem the wave of involving trucks and help ensure the drivers of those vehicles know how to operate them. The act asserts there must be a minimum set of requirements in place before a driver can receive a commercial driver’s license. The act also specifies certain license types.

The Class A CDL is given to motorists who operate a vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds or to motorists who tow a combination of vehicles that weigh at least 26,000 pounds. This type of license is also required for drivers who transport hazardous materials that are legally obligated to display warning placards.

The Class B Permit is given as a precursor to acquiring a Class A license.

The Class B CDL is provided to motorists who will be driving 16 passengers or more. If they are to be compensated, the number of passengers drops to eight.

Individuals who seek the types of licenses above are typically truck drivers, bus drivers, or tow truck operators.

The Suspension of a Commercial Driver’s License

Like any other motorist on the road, a bus or truck driver can have his or her license suspended. Operating a heavy vehicle under the influence is a significant infraction of Federal Motor Safety guidelines. Understandably so, the penalty for violation is more severe and the standards more strict. For example, the blood alcohol limit for the driver of a car or small truck is 0.08%. For a driver with a CDL, the limit is a mere 0.04%.    

After being caught driving under the influence the first time, the holder of a CDL can lose his or her license for 12 months. If they are hauling hazardous materials at the time of the infraction, they will lose driving privileges for 36 months.

If convicted a second time, the owner of the CDL will lose driving privileges indefinitely.

A person with a CDL can also lose driving privileges for the following transgressions:

• After causing injury or property damage, fleeing the scene
• Declining to submit to a chemical test
• Operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of drugs
• Committing a felony while operating a commercial vehicle

Work with a Commercial Driver’s License Attorney in Indiana

For holders of a commercial driver’s license, penalties for infractions are high. If yours is suspended, work with an experienced attorney at The Bellinger Law Office to get it reinstated.

We have the knowledge and skills to help you protect, not only your CDL but your livelihood as well. Contact us by clicking here or calling (260) 428-2214 to speak with one of our attorneys.  Do not put the financial well-being of your family in jeopardy.