Throughout the country and even the world, rideshares are becoming more and more popular. Choosing to drive for Lyft or Uber might be a good way to earn money, but if you are charged with a rideshare DUI, you could end up facing both criminal and professional consequences.

Keep reading to learn what you could be up against and how a criminal defense attorney could help you, then contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.

Blood Alcohol Concentration Limits for Rideshare Drivers

It is illegal in the state of California to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of more than 0.08%. However, commercial drivers have a lower limit of 0.04%. For years, rideshare drivers were not covered under this lower restriction because they were not required to have a commercial driver’s license.

However, as of July 2018, a rideshare driver must abide by the lower 0.04% BAC limit. They do not have to obtain a commercial driver’s license, and the lower limit only applies when they are actively transporting passengers in their car.

Penalties for Rideshare Drivers Convicted of a DUI

A rideshare driver’s penalties for a DUI conviction begin with the same penalties most people face: a license suspension of up to six months, up to six months in jail, and fines of $1,000. They could also be put on probation for up to three years after their conviction. All of this applies to a person’s first conviction – if the driver has a previous DUI conviction, then these consequences can be significantly higher.

People with DUI Convictions in the Last Seven Years Cannot Legally Driver for Uber or Lyft

The law in California states that any transportation network company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for their drivers re: DUIs. This means that rideshare companies are required to perform an initial background check before hiring the driver, and if there is a DUI within the previous seven years, then they cannot legally drive for a rideshare company.

Some rideshare companies go even further and will not allow a person to drive for them if they have a DUI within the last decade.

We Can Help You Fight DUI Charges

If you rely on driving for a rideshare to make your living, then it is worth fighting this charge. Even if you failed a breathalyzer or admitted to being under the influence at the time of your arrest, we might be able to help get the charges dismissed or reduced. Contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 now to request a free legal consultation.