Springfield Commercial DWI Lawyer

Have You Been Charged with a DWI While Driving a Commercial Vehicle in Missouri?

If you are a commercial driver and have been charged with a DWI, you face serious consequences. The state of Missouri takes DWI offenses very seriously, and you face the possibility of losing your driving privileges, your job, and your livelihood. In addition, if you are convicted of a DWI, you could face jail time, fines, and other penalties. If you are facing DWI charges, it is essential to retain the services of an experienced Springfield commercial DWI attorney.

At Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, LLC, our legal team has a deep understanding of Missouri's laws and the legal system. We have successfully helped numerous clients fight DWI charges, and we can help you, too.

Call (417) 213-5441 or complete our online contact form today to request a free consultation and learn about your available legal options.

How Is a Commercial Driver Charged with DWI in Missouri?

In Missouri, a commercial driver can be charged with DWI if he or she is operating a commercial vehicle and is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The state of Missouri defines a commercial vehicle as any vehicle that is used to transport goods or passengers for a profit. This includes buses, trucks, and other types of vehicles.

Like ordinary DWI cases, Missouri law requires that the state prove that you were operating a commercial vehicle while intoxicated. The prosecution must also prove that you were operating a commercial vehicle while intoxicated. If the prosecution can prove these two elements, the state can then attempt to prove that you were intoxicated while operating the commercial vehicle.

The prosecution can try to prove that you were operating a commercial vehicle by presenting evidence that you were in control of the vehicle. For example, if you were the driver of the vehicle, the prosecution can argue that you were operating the vehicle at the time of your arrest. If you were a passenger in the vehicle, the prosecution may try to argue that you were in control of the vehicle. For example, if you were the only passenger in the vehicle, the state may argue that you were in control of the vehicle.

The prosecution can attempt to prove that you were intoxicated by presenting evidence that you exhibited signs of intoxication. For example, the prosecution may try to show that you failed a field sobriety test or that you exhibited signs of intoxication such as slurred speech or the smell of alcohol on your breath. The prosecution may also try to introduce evidence that you had open containers of alcohol in the vehicle or that you were driving erratically.

How Are DWI Penalties for Commercial Drivers in Missouri?

If you are convicted of DWI in Missouri, you face serious penalties. For a first offense, the commercial driver is subject to 6 months in jail, fines of up to $500, and suspension of their non-commercial driver's license for 90 days.

In addition to the penalties listed above, you face the possibility of losing your CDL The state imposes a minimum one-year CDL disqualification for a first offense, but you could lose your driving privileges for up to 3 years, if the commercial driver was transporting hazardous materials at the time of the arrest. A second offense carries lifetime CDL disqualification.

Contact Our Firm Today

With over 90 years of combined experience, our legal team understands how DWI cases are prosecuted. We also know how to challenge the prosecution's evidence and how to challenge the testimony of law enforcement officials. We have the skills, knowledge, and experience you need on your side.

Contact us today at (417) 213-5441 to discuss your case.