In the state of Illinois, DUI charges are taken very seriously. Prosecutors and law enforcement typically punish offenders to the fullest extent of the law due to the risk drunk drivers pose to the public. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 10,874 deaths resulting from car crashes involving drivers with a blood-alcohol level of .08 or higher in 2017. This means 29 percent of all fatal traffic accidents were caused by drivers who were under the influence of alcohol. 

Repeat offenders are punished even more harshly, which does not bode well for an Illinois man who is accused of committing his third DUI and his 12th offense of driving with a suspended driver’s license.

New laws that were implemented at the beginning of 2016 could place more drivers with convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) back on the road. However, it should be noted that continued DUI charges can still result in subsequent punishment, including long-term imprisonment. In fact, one woman recently received a 13-year sentence after being convicted of her fifth and sixth charges of driving under the influence. Stay safe, prevent further DUIs, and know what to do if you are arrested again to protect yourself from similar consequences.

Follow All Former DUI Orders

If you have already received a DUI conviction, it is critical that you follow all orders given. This can include everything from fines and community service to the completion of a drug and alcohol program or use of an interlock device on your vehicle once your license is reinstated. Compliance can ensure you keep your license, and not attempting to drive illegally can prevent further penalties.