Fatality Caused by Drunk Driving
A fatality can be a life-changing experience for any loved ones left behind. It is especially heart wrenching if the death was sudden and unexpected, such as in a traffic collision. It can be equally life-altering for those accused of causing the accident. If driving under the influence is the contributing factor found in the investigation, two sets of lives may be altered forever.
The Situation
After a long work week, you and your spouse decide to go out to dinner. You both order a glass of wine and begin catching up like old times. By the time dinner arrives, your wine is gone, and you decide to have another. With laughter, you accidentally spill some red wine on your white dress shirt. The sun has gone down, and it becomes evident that it is time to get home. However, on the way home, there is construction, and the lights are blindingly bright. You do not see the temporary lane shift on the highway, and you and an oncoming car collide. The accident results in severe injuries, and the other driver passes away as a result.
The Penalty
Killing someone while driving a vehicle drunk is considered to be a Class 2 felony if convicted. It does not matter whether or not you have a prior DUI history, death is an aggravated DUI charge. The following are potential punishments upon conviction of DUI resulting in fatalities:
- Aggravated DUI with one death: Three to 14 years of incarceration and fines of up to $25,000.
- Aggravated DUI with multiple deaths: Potential incarceration of six to 28 years and fines of up to $25,000.
Other Side Effects
The penalties reach further than the sentencing process. Other ramifications exist after receiving a guilty verdict. These include, but are not limited to:
- DUI becomes a permanent staple on a driving record,
- Loss of employment/loss of income,
- Required completion of drugs and alcohol evaluation,
- Completion of narcotics or alcohol remedial education course,
- Substance abuse treatment facility attendance,
- Installation of Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID),
- Three years increase of high-risk auto insurance,
- Suspension of vehicle registration, and
- Vehicle impoundment.
Life can take unexpected turns and unfortunately they can have unintended consequences. However, with the assistance of a proven, experienced, and aggressive lawyer, it is possible to change your future. Under the right circumstances, cases can be dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge. Alternative indictments can create less of a detrimental impact on the future. If you are interested in speaking with a Maywood, IL DUI defense attorney, contact Stringini & Garvey, P.C. today at 630-834-9595 to schedule your free initial consultation. We proudly serve clients in Addison, Glendale Heights, Lombard, Bloomingdale, and all surrounding Chicagoland areas.
Sources:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-501
https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf
