When a person is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, it is important for them to understand the potential legal ramifications. Due to the manner in which drunk driving can endanger other travelers, it is not a simple traffic violation, but a serious criminal offense. According to Illinois state law, a DUI charge constitutes a Class A misdemeanor. Yet there are a number of factors that elevate a standard DUI to an aggravated DUI. Below, we will explore the offenses that can lead to an aggravated DUI charge, as well as the ways in which a conviction can ultimately impact your life. If you have been charged with an aggravated DUI, seek out legal assistance immediately.

Common Aggravating Factors

According to Illinois state law, an aggravated DUI conviction automatically constitutes a Class 4 felony. If convicted, the offender could face more than one year in prison, fines as high as $25,000, and a serious mark on their permanent record. It should be noted, that as of January 1, 2019, driving your vehicle the wrong way down a one-way street while under the influence of alcohol constitutes an aggravated DUI. Listed below are other common aggravating factors.

DUI Resulting in Harm: When a person driving under the influence of alcohol injures another party, the legal consequences are heightened. If an inebriated driver is deemed responsible for a collision that causes a person significant bodily harm or permanent disability, the offender will face felony charges, license revocation for a two-year period, and a minimum of one year in prison. If a person is fatally injured in the collision, the inebriated driver will be charged with a Class 2 felony, and have their prison sentence increased to a minimum of three years and a maximum of 14 years.

Here in the state of Illinois, there are a number of violations that could result in a driver’s license suspension. A driver can lose their driving privileges for three or more traffic violations within a 12-month period, accumulating 10 or more parking tickets and refusing payment, or for non-payment of court-ordered child support. The most noteworthy reason for a driver’s license suspension is a DUI offense.

According to the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office, more than 27,000 Illinoisans were charged with driving under the influence, throughout 2017 alone. Fortunately, a person facing either a license suspension or revocation may be eligible for reinstatement. If you have lost your driving privileges, and are hoping to have your license reinstated, you need to hire an attorney that you can believe in.

Steps Needed for Reinstatement

A license suspension can significantly impact a person’s livelihood, because of this, it is important to act quickly. Once your license has been suspended, you can request a hearing with the Illinois Secretary of State. These hearings can be formal or informal.