Commercial Driver Defense Attorney

Washington, D.C. Commercial Driver Defense Lawyer

Has your commercial drivers license been unfairly disqualified by the DC DMV? If you are facing CDL disqualification call Riley Legal immediately to get help (771) 220-7271. You may have defenses or options available to you to stop the disqualification or to get reinstated- but you must act quickly.

Unlike regular drivers, if your CDL is suspended, revoked or disqualified you will not only lose your privilege to operate a vehicle but you will also lose the right to practice your chosen profession. In general, for out of state CDL holders, a CDL suspension, revocation or disqualification by the DC DMV functions as a hold in the Commercial Driver's License Information System (CDLIS) or driver registry that prevents you from using your CDL in any other state. You worked hard to obtain your CDL and there is no way you can afford to lose it.

Your commercial drivers license can be disqualified for various reasons. The most common reasons for disqualification are if you are convicted or plead guilty to any of the following:

  • DUI/DWI while driving a commercial vehicle. Commercial drivers have a lower blood alcohol threshold for drunk driving charges; “while under the influence of alcohol” means an alcohol concentration of 0.04 grams or more per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath, or per 67 milliliters of urine.
  • DUI/DWI refusal to submit to alcohol testing
  • Leaving the scene of an accident that involves a commercial motor vehicle operated by the person
  • Using a commercial vehicle in the commission of a felony
  • Causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a commercial vehicle

A CDL holder who is found to have committed any of the above may have his or her commercial driver’s license:

  • suspended for one year for the first violation,
  • from 10 years to life for the second violation, and
  • for life for the third violation. 

Contact Us for Your Consultation

We're Ready to Help You Fight Your Traffic Ticket
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Why Choose Riley Legal?

  • Aggressive Representation
    Our firm offers assertive representation supported by a deep understanding of traffic laws, administrative regulations, and criminal law in both jurisdictions.
  • Free Consultations
    Take advantage of our free consultation to discuss your legal options with a member of our team.
  • 5000+ Traffic Ticket Cases Handled
    With over 5,000 traffic ticket cases handled, our team offers top-tier representation with unmatched experience.

Read What Our Clients are Saying

Reviews and Testimonials
    "This is the lawyer you need to be hiring if you need a well-educated and experienced lawyer. Mr. Riley cares about his clients."
    - Matthew A.
    "Sean was so helpful and professional. He made everything so easy and really seemed to care about helping. I even missed our first meeting together and he still fought for me. Thanks!"
    - Sam L.
    "Mr. Riley was very professional while keeping things comfortable and positive. Very quick response as well a better understanding of my case. A great pick to have in your corner. 10/10! Thanks again Mr. Riley."
    - Tasia M.
    "Mr. Sean Riley dismissed my ticket which would have added 3 points to my license. He was efficient and quick to help me with my needs. I recommend Mr. Sean Riley. He will take care of your tickets!"
    - Mauricio H.

    Contact Us For a Free Consultation

    Your commercial drivers license can also be disqualified if you are convicted or plead guilty of driving after you were issued an out-of-service order and that order has not been cancelled or withdrawn. The penalty is the suspension of your commercial driver’s license for 90 days to one year for the first violation, from one to 5 years for the second violation in any 10-year period, and from 3 to 5 years for the third violation in any 10-year period.

    A CDL can also be disqualified if you are found liable or guilty of 2 or more serious traffic violations within a 3-year period. Serious violations are

    • Speeding in a commercial vehicle at a speed fifteen (15) or more miles per hour in excess of the posted speed limit;
    • Reckless driving in any motor vehicle;
    • Violating a District or state traffic law, rule or regulation in connection with a fatal traffic accident in any motor vehicle
    • Improper or erratic traffic lane changes while operating a commercial vehicle
    • Operating a commercial vehicle without obtaining a commercial driver's license;
    • Following the vehicle ahead too closely while operating a commercial vehicle
    • Driving a commercial vehicle without the proper class of CDL and/or endorsement for the specific vehicle group being operated, or the number of passengers or type of cargo being transported.
    • Driving a commercial motor vehicle while not in possession of a commercial driver's license.
    • Texting while driving
    • Use of a hand-held mobile telephone while driving

    A CDL holder who is found “guilty” of committing any of the above may have his or her commercial driver’s license disqualified for sixty (60) days for any person convicted of two (2) serious traffic violations; or one hundred and twenty (120) days for any person convicted of three (3) or more serious traffic violations.

    DEFENDING COMMERCIAL DRIVERS

    Sean Riley is an experienced traffic attorney practicing law in Washington D.C. He is a knowledgeable authority on D.C. traffic laws and regulations and interrelated areas of administrative and criminal law. Attorney Riley is known for zealous client representation and a commitment to results.

    For more information about our ability to represent commercial drivers on D.C. disqualifications, traffic infractions and criminal charges call (771) 220-7271 for a free consultation.

    Continue Reading Read Less
    Your Defense Starts With Riley Legal Protect Your License
    Don't risk handling your ticket alone - leave it to our team at Riley Legal. Our mission is to dismiss every ticket, every time. Take action now: (771) 220-7271.
    Get a Free Consultation