A Tragic Death
Last winter, a 39 year-old male caused a motor vehicle accident when he crashed into a car containing two women and an 11 year-old boy in the back seat. The women were at a complete stop due to another accident up ahead of them.
The driver of the SUV, who was found to be under the influence of Heroine at the time, plowed into killing the boy in the back seat and critically injuring the female passenger. The impact caused a chain reaction that damaged even more cars. The 39 year old male plead guilty last Thursday and faces up to 14 years in jail.
DUI Fact Book by Secretary of State Jesse White
This incident never should have happened, but it happens all too often. Stories like this cause us to reflect on what can possibly be done to eliminate such a crime that takes the life of a child. Illinois has done a lot to combat this. Secretary of State Jesse White released his DUI Fact Book detailing the latest DUI statistics for the state of Illinois.
According the DUI Fact Book, Illinois’ drunk driving fatalities have declined nearly 38 percent since 1999. As a result of law enforcement crackdowns on drunk driving, the state boasts the highest possible rating from the Mothers Against Drunk Drivers organization.
This is progress, and it is good to hear something positive. Still, though, the statistics are sobering. Drunk drivers cause half of all Illinois traffic deaths, and 40% of all serious accidents on the interstates. The laws are strict and the penalties harsh in the state of Illinois, yet drunk driving continues to occur at an alarming rate.Car
Illinois DUI Laws
Driving under the influence refers to those operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. For those operating commercial vehicles, the limit is 0.04, and for those under 21, and all school bus drivers, there is zero tolerance. Drivers who have a BAC level of 0.16 or higher face tougher penalties, and all drivers facing DUI charges may lose their license for at least 90 days.
Drivers who choose to get behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol face stiff penalties in Illinois. A court can impose fines, suspend or completely revoke a driver’s license, require various types of rehabilitation treatment, community service, or jail time.
When somebody is killed in an accident caused by a driver under the influence, as in the above incident, the penalties are usually worse. These drivers can have criminal charges as well as civil claims made by family members of the victims who are injured or killed.
At Passen & Powell, we are determined to get these drivers off the roadways, and to get you the compensation you deserve from the tragedy caused by them. If you are injured or a loved one is killed because of the negligence of a driver under the influence, it is best to seek the council of an attorney who is experienced in these matters. Passen & Powell has over 30 years of experience and we cover all the bases to support you through a difficult time. We can sort through the facts and determine what your rights are and whether or not you have a valid case. We also investigate insurance policies of all involved parties, as well as the minute details that will be important in your civil claim.
For a free consultation with a top-rated car accident attorney at Passen & Powell, call us at (312) 527-4500.
