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Illinois DUI Laws (Part B)

First Time DUI Convictions

A first time DUI conviction faces the following penalties:

• Suspension of drivers' license for 1 year
• Fines up to $2,500
• Jail sentence of up to 1 year

Before driving privileges are restored (if eligible), the driver must undergo an alcohol and drug evaluation and successfully complete an alcohol and drug education program. Any DUI conviction also subjects the driver to high-risk car insurance rates for 3 years.

It may be shocking to learn that about 80% of drunk driving accident fatalities are caused by drivers with no arrests for DUI during the previous 3 years. Of more concern is that 83% of all DUI convictions are first-time offenders, meaning the remaining 17% are repeat offenders of the Illinois DUI laws.

Second DUI Convictions and Beyond

If a driver is convicted of a second DUI charge within 20 years of their first, they face all of the first-time charges, plus they may lose their license for a minimum of 5 years. If the second conviction is within 5 years of their first there is a minimum mandatory 5 day jail sentence.

While first and second DUI convictions are classified as misdemeanors, third conviction DUI offenders face Class 4 felony charges. This results in a loss of license for a minimum of 10 years, a possible 1 to 3 years of jail time, and fines up to $25,000. A fourth conviction will include all previous mentioned penalties, but raise the suspension of license to life.

Other Illinois DUI Laws

Driving under the influence with a passenger who is younger than 18-years-old, will result in additional penalties and potential jail time, along with the possibility of child endangerment or neglect charges. If a driver is found to have an open container of alcohol within their vehicle's passenger area, an additional $1,000 fine will be applied to any other fines.

Drivers younger than 21 years who are charged with DUI will have their license revoked for a minimum of 2 years. A second conviction results in a minimum 5 year license revocation or until they reach the age of 21. Third and fourth convictions carry the same penalties as a driver who is older than 21 years.

Contacting a Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer

Just as there are many Illinois DUI laws governing the penalties and circumstances of DUI convictions, there are many aspects to consider when filing an Illinois personal injury lawsuit for your drunk driving accident injuries. A Chicago personal injury lawyer can help you document the details of your case, submit your claims to the insurance company, and advise you on settlements.

The Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. have been helping clients like you with every stage of their Illinois personal injury lawsuit for more than 15 years. You have nothing to lose from our free case evaluation, contact us today - (312) 263-1080

The Law Offices of
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Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: 312.263.1080
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