According to Illinois DUI laws, a blood-alcohol content reading of 0.08 percent identifies a drunk driver. However, this isn’t the only factor that determines if the driver is arrested. Alcohol doesn’t affect all drivers in the same manner. The height and weight of the driver could play a role in determining how it affects the driver. For this reason, law enforcement could arrest a driver under suspicion of DUI if they believe that they are impaired at a lower percentage.
Fighting License Suspension
Law enforcement reserves the right to suspend the driver’s license of the accused if they have a blood-alcohol content reading of 0.08 percent. The suspension doesn’t begin until forty-five days after the accused is released from the county lockup. The accused is allowed to fight the suspension through legal representation. However, if convicted the suspension is upheld. The suspension for DUI is six months for the first offense. However, if the driver refused a breathalyzer, they’ll receive a one-year suspension.
Penalties Imposed by the Secretary of State
The Secretary of State has the right to impose a suspension pending the outcome of the case. If this is the case, the driver is responsible for paying all applicable charges even if the charges are dismissed. This includes a $500 reinstatement fee, $30 fee for a new license, and any fees associated with purchasing auto insurance. If the Secretary of State orders the driver to use an ignitiion interlocking device, the driver is responsible for these costs as well. Drivers facing these charges should contact a DUI Defense Lawyer in Kankakee immediately.
Criminal Penalties for the First Offense
Administrative penalties include license suspension for one year, a $1,000 fine, and up to six months in the county lockup. Community service and alcohol treatment programs are also required. The vehicle registration is also suspended.
Illinois imposes strict penalties for drivers convicted of DUI. If the charges are classified as aggravated, the penalties could increase at the judge’s discretion. Drivers charged with this infraction should contact a DUI Defense Lawyer in Kankakee immediately or Get additional info here about their case.
