2008 Illinois DUI Fact Book Now Online

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced this month that the 2008 Illinois DUI Fact Book is now available. The book is frequently used as a resource for media and the general public, and contains statistics, changes in the law and other information. The book describes the penalties for a DUI conviction in Illinois, the average cost of a DUI and new laws, including a discussion of the Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) law which will take effect on January 1, 2009, and which was a previous topic of my blog. To view the book in its entirety, visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com

Cost of a DUI Conviction
According to the fact book, convicted DUI offenders in the State of Illinois face tough penalties and licensing sanctions, with an average cost of a DUI offense a staggering $15,000. This figure reflects the cost of court and legal fees, potential income loss, costs associated with having a driver’s license reinstated, and the added cost of having to maintain high-risk auto insurance.

Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of a DUI conviction in the State of Illinois:
Insurance (3 years of required high-risk insurance at a cost of $1500 per year)=$4500
Legal Fees (uncontested plea and hardship driving permit)=$2000
Court Costs =$500
Fine (average fine)=$2500
Towing and Storage Fees=$250
Trauma Center Fund=$100
Loss of Income (Loss of four weeks income due to court appearances, jail time, community service, evaluations or remedial education classes, based on a $40,000/year salary)=$4,000
Rehabilitation (remedial substance abuse class and counseling)=$250
Driver’s License Reinstatement=$560

Total Cost=$14,660

The cost noted above does not take into consideration any potential damages to persons or property if a collision was involved. The above cost also does not factor in loss of potential future income depending on your occupation or profession. For example, if you are a professional driver such as a bus driver or truck driver, or if you are an airline pilot, a DUI conviction will impact your ability to earn a living.

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested for a DUI?
If you are arrested for violating Illinois’ DUI laws, contact an experienced DUI attorney immediately. In order to preserve your rights, you should seek legal counsel without delay. In Chicago, videotapes and audiotapes of arrests are only maintained for 30 days, after which valuable evidence documenting your arrest may be lost. In addition, if you fail to file required documentation within 46 days of your arrest, your license will automatically be suspended.

A lawyer experienced in defending people accused of DUI can challenge the prosecutor’s evidence and could have the charges reduced or dropped without having to accept a conviction. If you have been arrested for DUI, call Chicago DUI defense attorney Ava George Stewart at (312) 944-3973 to schedule a free consultation. Thanks for reading.