In our previous post, we looked at the recent arrest of a truck driver just north of Vancouver on Tuesday. The driver of the semi apparently had a BAC of at least .32 at the time of the arrest. We also began discussing how a DUI arrest and conviction can affect a driver's commercial driver's license. The question of how a driver's CDL is affected by a DUI arrest and conviction is an important one, as it has the potential to remove a driver's means of livelihood.

How soon a driver gets his or her CDL reinstated after a DUI conviction depends on whether he or she was driving the commercial vehicle or a non-commercial vehicle at the time of the arrest. As a rule, a second DUI conviction precludes the possibility of obtaining a CDL license or having it reinstated.

In terms of the blood alcohol level necessary for a DUI conviction, it is often lower for drivers operating a commercial vehicle. And in most states, refusing to take a BAC test means automatic forfeiture of a CDL for one year.

According to the Washington State Licensing department, a driver who's CDL is suspended, revoked, cancelled, or disqualified should contact their employer by the end of the business day following the day notice is receive. Notification must including written notice of all traffic convictions within 30 days of the DUI conviction.

Operating a commercial vehicle is a privilege that carries with it greater risks than operating a regular non-commercial vehicle. Commercial vehicles are often large and heavy, and have the potential to cause death or injury quite easily in the event of a collision. Commercial vehicle drivers, though, can make mistakes, and it is important to know the consequences, as well as your rights, when you get in a tight spot.

Source: kptv.com, "Truck driver arrested for DUI on I-5," August 1, 2011.