Waukegan, IL CDL Violation Defense Lawyer

Dependable Attorney Protecting the Rights of Commercial Drivers in Waukegan, Illinois

When commercial drivers are accused of traffic violations, the consequences of a conviction can be dire. Depending on the offense, a conviction could result in the suspension or outright disqualification of the commercial driver's license, or CDL. If you have been accused of a CDL violation, reach out to a Waukegan commercial driver's license defense lawyer.

When your job and future employment prospects are at stake, seeking strong legal counsel is important. At Law Office of Theodore S. Potkonjak, we have the resources and legal knowledge to defend commercial drivers against traffic crimes and other criminal violations. When you work with our firm, we will handle your case with personal attention as we work toward a desirable outcome.

What Are Serious CDL Violations?

Under federal and Illinois law, serious violations committed while operating a commercial motor vehicle can trigger significant penalties, including disqualification of your commercial driver's license (CDL). Examples of serious violations include excessive speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes, following too closely, and texting while operating a commercial vehicle.

Getting convicted of two serious violations in a three-year period carries a 60-day disqualification for your CDL. If you are convicted of three serious violations within a three-year period, the disqualification period will be extended to 120 days.

What Are Major CDL Violations?

Major CDL violations represent the most serious infractions for commercial drivers and carry harsher federal and state penalties, often leading to long-term license revocation. Major offenses include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, refusal to submit to a required alcohol or drug test, driving a commercial vehicle on a suspended or revoked license, using the commercial vehicle in the commission of a felony, leaving the scene of an accident in which you were involved, and any felony involving the use of a motor vehicle.

A first conviction for a major violation results in a one-year CDL disqualification. A second conviction for a major violation disqualifies you for life, though you may apply for reinstatement after 10 years. Illinois treats many of these major violations as felonies, carrying prison sentences, substantial fines, and permanent criminal records. Since federal regulations preempt state law in the context of CDLs, you could face both state prosecution and administrative action by the Secretary of State, making a vigorous defense essential.

DUI Charges for Commercial Drivers

Commercial drivers face stricter standards for driving under the influence than non-commercial motorists. Under both federal regulations and Illinois law, a commercial driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04 percent or higher is presumed to be operating under the influence. That threshold is half the limit applied to passenger vehicle operators.

A first DUI conviction for a CDL holder carries a one-year disqualification. Subsequent DUI convictions result in lifetime disqualification, subject to the same 10-year reinstatement window. In Illinois, DUI offenses for commercial drivers are often prosecuted as Class A misdemeanors or felonies when aggravating factors are present.

Beyond the loss of your CDL, a DUI conviction can lead to jail time, fines up to $2,500, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs. Considering what is at stake for your future, hiring an attorney experienced in CDL defense is critical to protect your career, your record, and your ability to earn a living.

Contact a Waukegan, IL CDL Violation Defense Attorney Today

At Law Office of Theodore S. Potkonjak, we understand the implications of a serious or major CDL violation. We will fight to protect your continued livelihood, working out a defense strategy while keeping your long-term needs in mind.

Our firm is available 24/7 for any client inquiries. To schedule a free consultation, contact our Waukegan CDL defense lawyer or call our offices at 847-263-1200 today. We take cases in McHenry County, Lake County, Cook County, and DuPage County.