Some workers may wonder whether DUIs are handled differently, whether they are on the job or driving as a civilian. Some industries involve more driving than others, such as the construction industry. What happens if you commit a DUI while driving a construction vehicle in North Carolina? How are the penalties different – and should you get in touch with a DUI defense lawyer?
Two Drivers Operating Construction Vehicles Charged With DUIs
It is possible to face a DUI while operating a vehicle in the construction industry. This was made clear after two different drivers were both charged with DUIs after allegedly causing a deadly collision near North Carolina. Authorities say that at about 3:OO AM on the Savannah Highway, an intoxicated driver was operating a construction vehicle while pulling a trailer behind. In this trailer were three other workers who were tasked with collecting traffic cones.
The driver of this vehicle then made an illegal U-turn on the highway, moving into the path of another intoxicated driver operating a second construction vehicle. All three of the workers in the trailer were ejected by the subsequent impact, suffering serious injuries in the process. One of these workers later died from their wounds.
Police later confirmed that both drivers of these construction vehicles were intoxicated at the time of the crash. As a result, they were charged with various counts of driving under the influence. One of the drivers also faced an additional count of having an open contained in a motor vehicle.
This incident shows that DUIs in the construction industry are actually quite common. Even if you were operating on a closed road section as part of a construction crew, you could still face a DUI. This is especially true if your actions result in an accident. Potentially, you could also get a DUI for operating a vehicle that is not even street-legal, such as a forklift or excavator.
How Do I Fight a DUI as a Construction Driver?
The same basic DUI defense strategies apply to incidents involving construction vehicles. You might be able to question the Breathalyzer or chemical tests associated with your arrest. You could also show that even though you were intoxicated, this did not impair your ability to drive. Finally, you could argue that you were not even the one driving the vehicle.
Proving that you did not commit a DUI could be particularly important if you plan to file a workers’ compensation claim. It is a well-known fact that your workers’ compensation claim will be denied if you were intoxicated at the time of your accident.
Can a DUI Defense Lawyer in North Carolina Help?
A DUI defense lawyer in North Carolina may be able to help those accused of committing DUIs while driving construction vehicles. A DUI while you are on the job can be just as serious as a DUI during civilian life. If you would like to discuss your legal options in more detail, consider a consultation with Coastal South Law today.
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