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Stamford Commercial Drivers Face Tougher DUI Laws In 2014

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- Beginning Jan. 1, those with a commercial driver’s license or a commercial driver’s instruction permit will be barred from using state programs that prevent convictions for driving under the influence and other serious traffic offenses when operating a private vehicle, according to a release.

Drivers with commercial licenses and permits will face stiffer penalties if arrested for driving under the influence in their private vehicle.

Drivers with commercial licenses and permits will face stiffer penalties if arrested for driving under the influence in their private vehicle.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Until now, commercial drivers could use a special state diversion program to prevent a conviction resulting from a first-time DUI in those vehicles.

“Driving under the influence is a serious charge and risks the lives of others on the road as well as drivers themselves," DMV Commissioner Melody A. Currey said in a statement. "The federal law holds those with a CDL license to a high standard."

Beginning on Jan. 1, if you hold a Commercial Driver’s License or Commercial Driver’s Instruction Permit and are arrested for operating under the influence or for a serious traffic offense such as reckless driving or evading responsibility:

  • You will not be able to use a diversion program such as the Alcohol Education Program or the Accelerated Rehabilitation Program even if you are arrested while you are driving your personal vehicle.
  • If you are convicted for the offense, your CDL or Permit will be disqualified for the required period and the conviction will remain on your record for 55 years.
  • If you are convicted, you also face a suspension of your regular license.
  • If you are convicted of a DUI offense, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device on your personal motor vehicle.

For more information, visit the Connecticut DMV website.

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