In Illinois, drunk driving is a serious offense that often leads to fatalities when accidents occur. The driver’s blood-alcohol content reading defines whether the charge is a standard or aggravated DUI. The penalties are based on the blood-alcohol content reading, the age of the driver, and previous convictions. A drunk driving lawyer in Sycamore, IL offers clarity about this type of cases.
What Penalties Are Imposed?
The first conviction starts with up to one year in jail. The fine ranges up to $2,500. The driver’s license is suspended for one year at least. Next, the second conviction also leads to up to one year in jail with a fine up to $2,500. The driver’s license is suspended for five years. The third conviction imposes a prison sentence between three and seven years. The fine ranges up to $2,500, and the driver’s license is suspended for ten years. All convictions require the driver to install an ignition interlocking device in their vehicles.
What Are the Penalties for Refusing to Submit to Testing?
The first offense leads to a one-year driver’s license suspension. The second and any additional offenses incur a driver’s license suspension for three years. The state laws impose the implied consent ruling for all drivers who choose to drive while intoxicated. Even if they aren’t convicted for the DUI, the court has the option to impose a penalty for refusing chemical testing.
Drunk Drivers Who Cause Accidents
The outcome of a drunk driving-related auto accident determines if the driver faces additional offenses. A fatality leads to an additional offense such as vehicular manslaughter or homicide. The age of the victim also plays a role in determining the possible sentence. The defendant faces a prison sentence, hefty fines, and restitution for the victim’s family. Additionally, the defendant faces a civil lawsuit for wrongful death.
In Illinois, drunk driving offenses lead to extensive driver’s license suspensions and fines. Some drivers also face jail or prison sentences based on previous convictions. Any accident resulting from drunk driving leads to further criminal charges. Drivers who are facing this charges should contact a drunk driving lawyer in Sycamore, IL through The Cosentino Law Firm, LLC right now.
