The Unintended Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Illinois

 Posted on December 01,2016 in DUI/DWI

Even the most sensible people can sometimes exercise poor judgement, or think that they are sober enough to drive after a few drinks. Drunk, intoxicated, or even buzzed drivers are often pulled over by law enforcement and arrested on DUI charges. Oftentimes,these individuals have no idea what to do because they are first time DUI offenders. A DUI conviction can have a profound impact on your life beyond the obvious criminal consequences, such as jail time and fines. Many first time DUI offenders are stunned by the additional consequences of a DUI.

DUI Facts: The Profile of the Average DUI Offender

According to the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State, the average DUI offender in Illinois is a male around the age of 34 years old, who is intoxicated behind the wheel between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. This typical DUI offender generally hasa blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of twice the legal limit (legal limit being 0.08 BAC in Illinois for drivers over the age of 21). Ninety percent of the drivers who were arrested in 2014 for DUI lost their driving privileges as a result, and 86 percent of those drivers who were arrested were first time offenders.

Additional Consequences of A DUI

In addition to the misdemeanor or felony penalties associated with a DUI conviction, there are a number of additional consequences that many people do not realize also result from a DUI conviction. For instance:

• In order to get your driver’s license reinstated, you will have to successfully attend and complete a drug and alcohol remedial education course, or a substance abuse course;
• You will have a permanent DUI conviction on your driving record;
• You may miss time from work or school because you have to deal with your DUI hearing;
• You may be able to get a restricted driving permit, but you will have to meet certain requirements for an administrative hearing before you can get the permit;
• Your vehicle registration will be suspended;
• Your vehicle will likely be impounded, and you must pay to get your vehicle out of impoundment;
• You will be required to get high-risk auto insurance for three years following your DUI conviction; and
• If you were subject to a blood test to determine your blood alcohol concentration level, you may be held liable for the cost of that blood test if you are subsequently convicted of a DUI.

First Time DUI Offender? Contact Our Offices Today

The courts do not take DUI offenses lightly and may be particularly harsh on first time DUI offenders. If you have been charged with a DUI, you will need help navigating your criminal charges and understanding the DUI court procedures for getting a restricted driving permit, a judicial hearing, and fighting your DUI charges. Please contact a passionate Rolling Meadows DUI defense attorney immediately to discuss your case.

Source:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf