How to Obtain a Restricted Driving Permit After an Illinois DUI

When a person is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs in Illinois, there is a mandatory period of driver’s license suspension. The convicted DUI offender is not allowed to drive a car or operate other vehicles for a certain amount of time. This suspension period can apply to commercial drivers, as well.

That being said, Illinois law recognizes that certain people need to drive for work or medical reasons. As a result, it is possible for a convicted drunk driver to receive a restricted driving permit (RDP). These permits allow a DUI offender to drive for approved reasons and under limited conditions.

Who is Eligible for an RDP?

As outlined by the Illinois Secretary of State, the offender must demonstrate undue hardship to be eligible for an RDP. Specifically, the offender must show that they need to drive for:

    Employment reasons; Medical reasons; Child,
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Written by on September 14, 2018

Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Devices (BAIIDs) in Illinois

There are approximately 12,000 people in Illinois currently driving with a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID). These devices monitor former DUI offenders to prevent further episodes of drunk driving. To gain a clear understanding of this legal requirement, the following sections will explore several frequently asked questions about BAIIDs in Illinois.

What is a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID)?

These devices are installed on a motor vehicle’s ignition system. In order to start the vehicle, the driver must register a test of their blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). If the BAIID fails to register a test — or registers a BAC of 0.025 or more — then the motor vehicle will not start.

After the initial test, the BAIID requires the driver to submit additional BAC tests at random times. If the driver fails to register or exceeds the established BAC limit, then the car will stop working properly.

A [...]

Written by on July 6, 2018

Six Driver’s Rights that Apply to Every Illinois Traffic Case

From minor traffic violations to serious offenses like DUI, there are certain rights that apply in every Illinois traffic case, according to the Illinois Circuit Court. The following sections will explore important considerations for six driver’s rights in Illinois traffic cases.  

Right to Know the Charge

After law enforcement issues a traffic ticket, the driver is entitled to a written copy of the charges. This written copy must provide the following information:

    Full name of the driver; Details of the alleged traffic violation; Listing of the law(s), statute(s) or ordinance(s) allegedly violated; and Date, time, and place of the alleged traffic violation.

Right to Know the Penalty

The penalties for traffic violations in Illinois can change drastically based on the nature of the offense. In every case, the driver is entitled to know the precise nature of the penalties involved. Most traffic cases in Illinois fall into one [...]

Written by on June 22, 2018

Comparing DUI and Aggravated DUI in Illinois

In the interest of public health and safety, the State of Illinois has enacted strict laws against driving under the influence (DUI). To gain a full appreciation of these laws, the following sections will outline definitions of and penalties for DUI and aggravated DUI.

What is the Definition of DUI in Illinois?

The Illinois definition of DUI appears in 625 ILCS 5/11-501. In larger terms, Illinois makes it illegal to operate a vehicle while intoxicated. Intoxication can come from alcohol, illegal drugs, pharmaceuticals, or any combination of those compounds. In terms of alcohol, specifically, the legal limit in Illinois is a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08. If the driver is intoxicated or impaired — and, thus, incapable of safe driving conduct — then it may qualify as a DUI.

What are the Penalties for DUI in Illinois?

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501, the penalties for DUI in Illinois change [...]

Written by on May 25, 2018