The consequences of a DUI accident in Illinois depend on various factors. If someone is found driving under the influence, they will face criminal charges. The classification of an offense as a misdemeanor or felony is based on factors such as the presence of bodily harm, injury, or reckless homicide. Criminal penalties can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and days or hours of community service.
A DUI that causes an accident may also result in financial liability for property damage and bodily injuries. Civil lawsuits can be filed, holding the driver responsible for all related costs. Medical expenses for injured parties may also be the driver's responsibility. These civil judgments stay on the driver's record indefinitely.
Contact DUI Lawyers 24/7 at 847-999-7616 or online for strong legal representation.
Consequences of a DUI Accident in Illinois
Driving under the influence (DUI) in Illinois has serious legal consequences. If a person's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is.08 percent or higher while operating a motor vehicle, they are legally intoxicated.
If a DUI results in personal injury or death, the driver may face enhanced criminal charges. The severity of the offense determines whether the driver receives a Class A misdemeanor or felony charge. Penalties for driving with a blood alcohol content above the legal limit in Illinois include fines, jail time, installation of an ignition interlock device, suspension of vehicle registration, and statutory summary suspension of license or revocation.
Those responsible for a DUI-caused accident can be held liable for all related damages.
More Information : Rights During a DUI Arrest
DUI Accidents in Illinois
A DUI in Illinois with an accident can have serious consequences. The penalties depend on the severity of the accident, such as fines, jail time, hours or days of community service, and license suspension. It also depends on whether anyone was hurt or property was damaged.
The most common consequence is being held liable for injuries or property damage. This means paying for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. In some cases, a civil lawsuit may be filed and the driver may be responsible for all costs.
An accident caused while driving with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit can result in serious legal and financial consequences. If charged, it is important to consult an attorney to protect your interests.
What is a DUI accident?
A DUI motor vehicle accident, also known as a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) crash, is an automobile collision that involves a motor vehicle driven by someone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In Illinois, a drunk driving accident is considered a criminal offense and can result in serious legal consequences for those involved. Depending on the circumstances of the incident, penalties may include hefty fines, suspension of a professional license, jail time, or the suspension or revocation of a driver’s license.
Additionally, individuals may be held liable for any damages incurred by those injured in the accident.
Injury DUI in Illinois
In Illinois, an Injury DUI is a violation of the state’s DUI laws that involves causing injury to another person as a result of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is considered a serious criminal offense with severe penalties, including possible imprisonment and large fines.
If convicted of an Injury DUI in Illinois, the accused will face numerous consequences. Depending on the severity of the injury caused, the accused may face a Class A misdemeanor or felony charge. A conviction for an Injury DUI in Illinois can result in jail time of up to 12 years, hefty fines between $25,000 and $250,000, and a mandatory license suspension of at least one year. Additionally, individuals convicted of this offense may be held liable for all related damages incurred by those injured in the accident.
What is a DUI Injury?
A DUI Injury is an injury that results from a person operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In Illinois, DUI offenses are serious criminal charges that carry severe penalties both in terms of fines and jail time. When a DUI offense causes an accident resulting in injury to another person, the consequences can be particularly serious.
In Illinois, a driver can be charged with aggravated DUI if they cause an accident in which someone is injured. This type of DUI offense carries a minimum jail sentence of one year and/or up to 12 years in prison, as well as hefty fines between $25,000 and $250,000. Additionally, individuals convicted of an aggravated DUI may be held liable for all related damages incurred by those injured in the accident.
Possible Penalties for a DUI Causing an Accident or Injury in Illinois
In Illinois, a DUI causing an accident or injury is considered an aggravated DUI and carries significant penalties. A person convicted of aggravated DUI in Illinois could face jail time, heavy fines, and license suspension. A conviction on an aggravated DUI charge could also lead to increased insurance rates and difficulty obtaining employment or housing.
If the incident resulted in injury or death, the consequences can be even more severe. In addition to a jail sentence and fines, individuals found guilty of an aggravated DUI could face felony charges with even harsher penalties. Depending on the circumstances, the accused may also be held liable for all damages incurred by those injured in the accident. Some of the possible penalties are:
- Court-Imposed Fines & Costs
- Jail Time or Home Confinement
- Community Service Hours/Days
- Potential Revocation of Driving Privileges
- Influence of Alcohol on Penalties & Sentencing Provisions
- Restricted Driving Permit Possibilities
- Long-term effects on Criminal Record & Background Checks
Possible Defenses to an Illinois DUI Injury or Accident Allegation
If you are charged with DUI in Illinois and the charge is related to an accident that resulted in injury or death, the consequences can be very serious. Depending on the severity of the incident, you could be facing a Class A misdemeanor, a Class 4 felony, or even a Class 2 felony. The potential punishments include hefty fines, jail time, license suspension, and more.
Fortunately for those accused of DUI in Illinois, there are potential legal defenses that can be used to challenge the charges against them. Common defense strategies may include challenging the validity of a traffic stop or breath test, raising doubts about the accuracy of the officer’s observations, or arguing that you were not “under the influence” at the time of the incident. If successful, these defenses may reduce or eliminate the consequences related to your DUI charge.
Contact Seasoned DUI Defense Attorneys in Chicago
If you get charged with a DUI and there's an accident in Illinois, you need to contact DUI defense attorneys in Chicago immediately. DUI charges in Illinois can lead to serious consequences like big fines, jail time, community service, license suspension or revocation, and more. The penalties for a DUI with an accident are even worse. Depending on the severity of the accident and any injuries, you could be charged with a felony and face significant jail time.
Our skilled DUI defense attorneys in Chicago are well-versed in Illinois DUI law and are prepared to use their knowledge and experience to develop a strong defense strategy on your behalf.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and get the help you need.