Many individuals find themselves facing their first interaction with the Illinois criminal justice system when charged with DUI. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in misdemeanor or felony charges involving significant fines, the potential loss of your driver's license, and the possibility of imprisonment in jail or prison.
Comparing DUI Offenses to Standard Traffic Violations
On a daily basis, minor traffic infractions typically encompass activities such as speeding, running a red light, and failing to stop at a stop sign. When stopped by a police officer for these violations, it often results in receiving an expensive ticket. In contrast, DUI is a grave traffic offense that carries much steeper criminal consequences. Here is the breakdown of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits in Illinois:
- Drivers under the age of 21: 0.00
- School Bus Drivers: 0.00
- Commercial driver’s license holders: 0.04
- Drivers over the age of 21: 0.08