The holidays are a time for gathering with friends and family—celebrations which often involve drinking. However, during the holidays, DUI enforcement is a top priority for law enforcement in Illinois.
This holiday season, if you are convicted of a DUI, it is more than just an inconvenience. A DUI conviction can cause problems with future background checks and will cost you a lot of money.
The Consequences of DUI in Illinois
A first time DUI conviction in Illinois will result in a suspended license for a minimum of one year. Moreover, it will leave you with a criminal record. Additionally, you will have to install an ignition interlock device in your car. However, depending on the number of previous DUI convictions, if you are convicted of more than one, then you may be arrested and jailed for a few days or several years.
Illinois has a zero tolerance for anyone under 21 years of age who drives with alcohol in his or her system. Therefore, even if your blood alcohol content is below the limit of .08, you can be convicted of DUI if you are under 21.
What to Do If You Are Pulled Over For DUI
If you are pulled over for DUI, the way you react could drastically affect your likelihood of being convicted. Therefore, understanding and exercising your rights is essential.
If you are pulled over, then you will need to answer law enforcement’s questions regarding your name and address. However, beyond that, you should politely inform law enforcement that you do not wish to answer any further questions. This includes not answering any questions about how much you have had to drink.
Also, never lie to law enforcement as that may create more legal trouble. You can, however, politely refuse to take any field sobriety tests. No matter how well you do on the tests, the officer will most likely fail you. You should also refuse to take a Breathalyzer test. They sometimes are not calibrated correctly or accurately and can yield inaccurate results that can land you in jail.
The first time you refuse a breath test, your driver’s license MAY be suspended for one year. It is important to speak to an experienced attorney as soon as possible to file the appropriate motions to contest the possibility of a suspension of your license for this refusal.
You have a right to contest DUI charges. Pleading guilty is not in your best interest. Having an experienced DUI attorney take the time to analyze your case and advise you on your best course of action is in your best interest.
Consult with an Illinois DUI Attorney Today
Have you been arrested for DUI? You need to speak with a skilled and knowledgeable Schaumburg DUI attorney right away. Do not speak with anyone about your case until you have consulted with an Illinois attorney. You need to know your rights. Call Glasgow & Olsson today at 847.577.8700 to schedule your consultation.
Source:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-501