Driving under the influence is probably not something anyone sets out to do. Intoxicants such as alcohol effect judgement and, unfortunately, sometimes lead to a decision to drive impaired. Reckless driving poses a risk to everyone – the number of DUI-related accidents are sobering, some of which result in injury or death.
Charges of reckless homicide and DUI are pending against a 22-year-old Chicago man following a car crash, which killed a local musician over the weekend. The accident happened early Sunday morning on the Eisenhower Expressway near west suburban Forest Park. The collision occurred when the Chicago man entered the expressway on an exit ramp traveling in the wrong direction. In addition to the fatality, 5 others were injured including the wrong-way driver. They were taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Police said alcohol was a factor in the accident.
A person is guilty of driving under the influence if he operates a motor vehicle with an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more in his blood or breath. Whether it is considered a misdemeanor or a felony depends on aggravating factors. There are several factors in Illinois law that will elevate a DUI into a felony category. Generally, repeat offenses of DUI, causing bodily harm or death, DUI involving minors & not possessing the necessary permits and insurance to drive can result in aggravated DUI charges. Felony drunk driving may lead to incarceration ranging from a year to decades depending on the circumstances.
If you or a loved one has been charged with DUI, it is important to secure experienced legal help. Ron Bell has been recognized as an Illinois “Top 10 DUI Attorney” in Client Satisfaction 2014 & 2015. Please contact Attorney Ronald L. Bell for assistance with an Illinois DUI.
Source: ABC7Chicago.com, “I-290 Wrong-Way Crash Kills Local Musician Juan Carlos Salazar; Inbound Lane Reopen”, accessed January 13, 2015.