Illinois DUI Lawyer Blawg
It is generally understood that DUI arrests increase around the holiday season. In an effort to crack down on an increase in drunk driving, Arizona enacted a holiday DUI enforcement plan. In Arizona, as in Illinois, the police can only arrest people for DUI crimes in certain situations, however, and if a person is unjustly arrested, they may be able to effectively argue for the dismissal of charges against them. If you were arrested for a DUI offense, it is wise to meet with an Illinois DUI defense attorney to discuss your rights.
Arizona’s Reduction in DUI Arrests
It is reported that the Arizona’s Governor’s Office of Highway Safety initiated the statewide holiday DUI enforcement task force the Tuesday prior to Thanksgiving. The office’s director highlighted that to regular drivers, this campaign would manifest as an increased presence of law enforcement on the roads. During Thanksgiving weekend, there were approximately 50 fewer DUI arrests than the previous year, which the director of the office attributes to the heightened visibility.
He based his information on data from the previous December. He noted that the holiday season typically sees an uptick in intoxicated driving, DUI incidents, and an increase in speeding, especially in the Phoenix Metropolitan area and throughout the state.
Allegedly, to prevent DUI arrests during the holidays, the officer stressed the importance of having a plan before going out. He urged individuals to arrange for a safe and sober ride home if they were consuming alcohol, discourage intoxicated individuals from driving, and ensure guests at gatherings had sober transportation options.
DUI Arrests in Illinois
In Illinois, a person can be arrested for a DUI offense on various grounds. The state’s legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%, and individuals operating a vehicle with a BAC at or exceeding this limit can face DUI charges. For drivers under the age of 21, any detectable BAC is considered a violation due to the state’s zero-tolerance policy. Beyond BAC, law enforcement officers can arrest a driver for DUI based on observable signs of impairment, such as erratic driving, slurred speech, or impaired motor skills, even if the BAC is below the legal limit.
DUI charges can also be levied if a driver is under the influence of drugs, whether illicit substances or prescription medications impairing their ability to drive safely. Additionally, individuals with prior DUI convictions may face enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses, and strict laws govern underage drinking and driving, with any detectable BAC leading to DUI charges for those under 21.
Meet with a Trusted Illinois DUI Defense Attorney
While the police have the right to investigate DUI offenses, they must have reasonable suspicion that a person is committing or has committed a crime in order to stop a person. If you are faced with Illinois DUI charges, it is smart to meet with an attorney. Theodore J. Harvatin of the Harvatin Law Offices, PC, is a trusted Illinois DUI defense attorney with ample experience helping people protect their interests in criminal matters, and if you hire him, he will advocate zealously on your behalf. You can reach Mr. Harvatin via the online form or by calling 217.525.0520 to schedule a meeting.