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DUI & Traffic Violations

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Chicago DUI & Traffic Violations

DUI

The legal system bases a DUI (driving under the influence) on tests for blood alcohol concentration (BAC). BAC has become the barometer that determines jail, fines and license suspension. A BAC of .08% or higher is an automatic DUI charge in Illinois.

All 50 states have established .08% BAC as the level at which driving abilities become impaired. At this level, fundamental driving skills, such as the ability to brake, steer, control speed, change lanes, judge speed and distance as well as shift gears diminish. Statistics show that the odds are three times greater for car accidents when drivers have a BAC at .08. Chances of being killed in a single vehicle car accident are eleven times greater when the BAC is .08.

To give you an idea of how many alcoholic beverages one would have to drink to arrive at a .08% BAC, here are some examples:

  • 170 lb. male – 4 or more drinks in one hour on an empty stomach
  • 137 lb. female – 3 or more drinks in one hour on an empty stomach

There are also civil consequences (a statutory summary suspension, for example) that accompany DUI charges. This type of suspension can be litigated as well, but it is very important to begin that process soon after the arrest, even before there are any court dates. There are approaches to a DUI defense that might help to dismiss or lessen the charge or penalties. For this reason, your first action should be to call a Chicago DUI attorney as soon as possible.

Traffic Violations

Traffic violations vary from minor infractions to serious traffic offenses that are categorized as misdemeanors and felonies.

Mechanical and moving violations are considered infractions, whereas, reckless driving, driving without a license or without insurance may be charged as misdemeanors. When someone is injured or killed as a result of a traffic violation, traffic felonies may be charged. Penalties range anywhere from loss of license and higher insurance rates for infractions to substantial fines and a maximum of one year in jail for misdemeanors to years of imprisonment for felonies.  Our attorneys explain the differences between a felony and a misdemeanor.

A criminal defense attorney can often assist you in getting traffic charges lessened or dismissed and warrants lifted. Serious traffic violations include the right to legal representation and trial by jury.

To arrange a consultation to discuss your concerns regarding DUI charges or traffic violations, please call 312-368-0611 or use our online quick contact email.

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