Introduction:
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Pennsylvania, and it can have significant legal, financial, and personal consequences for anyone convicted of the crime. For railroad workers, a DUI conviction can have additional implications, affecting not only their personal lives but also their careers. In this blog post, we will discuss the unique concerns that railroad workers face when accused of a DUI in Pennsylvania and provide guidance on how to address these challenges.
Understanding DUI Laws and Penalties in Pennsylvania:
The penalties for a DUI conviction depend on the driver’s BAC level or drug presence, prior offenses, if any, and if anyone was injured and how badly. They can include fines, license suspension, jail time, community service, alcohol highway safety school, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties.
Unique Concerns for Railroad Workers Facing a DUI Conviction:
- Impact on Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations:
Railroad workers are subject to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, which govern the use of alcohol and drugs in the railroad industry. A DUI conviction can result in disciplinary action, including suspension or termination of employment, depending on the employer’s policies and the severity of the offense. - Loss of Railroad Certifications:
Certain railroad workers, such as locomotive engineers and conductors, are required to maintain specific certifications to perform their job duties. A DUI conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of these certifications, potentially jeopardizing their career in the railroad industry. - Insurance Rates:
A DUI conviction can result in increased auto insurance rates for personal vehicles. These higher premiums can add financial strain to railroad workers who may already be dealing with the high cost of living and other financial obligations. - Reputation and Professional Standing:
Railroad workers often rely on their reputation and professional standing to maintain good relationships with their employer, coworkers, and other industry professionals. A DUI conviction can tarnish a railroad worker’s reputation, potentially affecting their career advancement and job opportunities.
Addressing a DUI Accusation as a Railroad Worker:
- Consult an Experienced DUI Attorney:
If you are a railroad worker facing a DUI charge, it is crucial to consult with an experienced DUI attorney who understands the unique concerns that railroad workers face. They can help you navigate the legal process and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. We at The McShane Firm routinely handle cases involving DUI and railroad workers. - Gather Evidence and Witnesses:
Work with your attorney to gather any evidence and identify potential witnesses that may help your case. This could include proof of your whereabouts before the DUI stop, evidence that your BAC was not above the legal limit, or witnesses who can testify to your sobriety at the time of the incident. - Evaluate Potential Defense Strategies:
Discuss potential defense strategies with your attorney, such as challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the testing results or field sobriety tests, or presenting evidence of a medical condition that may have affected the test results.
In conclusion, cases of Pennsylvania DUI and railroad workers require specialized knowledge by the criminal defense attorney and special care by that attorney. We at The McShane Firm have nearly 20 years of experience in helping railroad workers who are accused of a DUI. Please call us today.
Justin McShane
PA DUI attorney Justin J. McShane is the President/CEO of The McShane Firm, LLC - Pennsylvania's top criminal law and DUI law firm. He is the highest rated DUI attorney in PA as rated by Avvo.com. Justin McShane is a double Board certified attorney. He is the first and so far the only Pennsylvania attorney to achieve American Bar Association recognized board certification in DUI defense from the National College for DUI Defense, Inc. He is also a Board Certified Criminal Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a Pennsylvania Supreme Court Approved Agency.