It has been 35 years since the group Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) caught the national spotlight, raising awareness of the dangers associated with drunk driving. Since that time, stricter state laws have been enacted and law enforcement has aggressively pursued drivers impaired by alcohol as well as other intoxicating substances. Despite increased public knowledge regarding the harm intoxicated drivers cause themselves and others, driving under the influence continues to be a problem on America’s roadways. Injuries caused by drunk and impaired driving accidents are often severe and even life threatening. The following provides information you should know about the dangers associated with impaired driving, as well as the laws that are enacted to deter intoxicated drivers in our state.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) was founded in 1980. At the time, over 25,000 people were killed in drunk driving accidents each year. Since then, the number of drunk driving fatalities has been cut in half, but there is still major work to be done. The following are some sobering facts about drunk driving today:
In light of these grim statistics, it is easy to see why law enforcement conducts aggressive campaigns to keep drunk drivers off the road. They have expanded their focus to include drivers under the influence of illegal drugs as well as prescribed medications. Operating a car after taking any substance that impairs your reasoning and judgment behind the wheel is against the law.
Driving under the influence of any intoxicating substance puts yourself and others in danger. To deter intoxicated drivers, the state of Illinois has enacted tough laws against drunk driving, with heavy punishments for drivers who are determined to be driving under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. The Illinois Compiled Statutes, Section 11-501 outlines the laws and penalties for driving while under the influence (DUI). Under state law, drivers are not permitted to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or greater, or while under the influence of any drug or compound that results in physical or mental impairment. This includes illegal ‘street’ drugs, as well as prescribed medications. Penalties for driving under the influence include the following:
Punishments for drunk driving become more severe if the driver causes an accident resulting in injury or death. As for underage drunk drivers, Illinois has a zero tolerance policy. Driving under the influence of any amount of alcohol or drugs results in fines, potential jail time, and the loss of driving privileges.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact our experienced Will County car accident attorney today. At Sabuco Beck, P.C., we will ensure responsible parties are held accountable for the damages they cause, and help you get the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, property damages, and pain and suffering. Don’t hesitate to contact our office today at (815) 730-8860 for an initial consultation.
See the difference family makes at Sabuco Beck, P.C.
Everything went very well and made a difficult process feel more at ease.
Mr. Sabuco and Sandra are top-notch. Blew away my past experiences with lawyers. They also have compassion and care, which is rare! Thank you!
I recommend Sabuco Beck, P.C.
Guiding You Towards A Brighter Future. Learn More About Our Attorneys Below
950 Essington Road Suite B
Joliet, IL 60435
Phone : (815) 730-8860
Fax : (815) 730-8865