Many states have a lookback period for DUI convictions. A lookback period, which is typically five to 10 years, indicates the amount of time a DUI conviction remains on a person’s driving record. This is helpful for those charged with subsequent DUIs because the prosecution and courts can only see DUIs within that timeframe. If a person was convicted of a DUI but the conviction took place longer than the lookback period, that DUI is not considered during sentencing.

So, is there a lookback period in Illinois for DUIs?

Lookback Period in Illinois

Often with a new year comes new laws, and 2019 was no different. In fact this year, over 250 new laws went into effect on January 1, 2019. One, in particular, affects those charged with a DUI while traveling on the wrong side of the road. Now, wrong-way travel is an aggravating factor in sentencing for DUIs.

What exactly does the new law entail, though? And what does it mean for drivers in Rolling Meadows?

The New DUI Law

Being charged with a DUI is always an upsetting time. Individuals may feel shocked if they did not realize they had too much to drink. When the DUI is a first offense, it is also normal to feel confused and worried about what will happen next.

The first thing individuals should always do after being charged with a DUI is to contact a DUI attorney in Rolling Meadows that can help. An attorney will be able to best explain what will happen in a specific situation and provide a strong defense. This will give those charged the best chance at regaining their freedom and having a clear record once the incident is over.

Generally speaking, there is a procedure that anyone charged with a DUI will have to follow.

One-third of drivers arrested for drunk driving are repeat offenders, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data revealed that for some states, 47 percent of DUI offenders are repeat offenders. Ultimately, if you have already been convicted of one DUI, there a high chance that you will be charged with another. Moreover, after a second DUI conviction in Illinois, the penalties become much higher.

Aggravated DUI

An aggravated DUI is a serious offense — one that results in mandatory imprisonment or community service terms not being eligible for suspension or reduction. Additionally, aggravated DUI charges result in a minimum of 480 hours of community service or 10 days of imprisonment for those out on probation or conditional discharge. Aggravated DUI is charged when the offender was driving under the influence:

• In a school zone, while the school speed was in effect, and caused a crash resulting in bodily harm;
• While driving a school bus with one or more minors as occupants;
• And caused a serious bodily harm;
• And caused a death;
• Without vehicle liability insurance; and
• In many other circumstances.

Additionally, aggravated DUI is charged whenever the offender has already had two DUI convictions, according to the Illinois Secretary of State.

In Illinois, we are lucky to be located near Lake Michigan and other smaller lakes that are sprinkled throughout the state. Nice weather often calls for days spent with family and friends on a boat. For most people, these fun activities often involve the enjoyment of alcoholic beverages. However, what most people do not think about is the potential that they may face criminal charges while driving or operating a boat under the influence of alcohol.

What Is Boating Under the Influence?

In Illinois, the same law applies to boating under the influence of alcohol as for driving under the influence (DUI). If you are operating a boat with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over .08%, you can be charged with DUI. Additionally, operating a boat under the influence of drugs can also result in a DUI charge.

Picture the vessel in which you suspect a person would get in trouble for boating under the influence. Is it a speedboat? A person can be charged with boating under the influence when operating any number of different vessels, including yachts, sailboats, personal watercrafts, fishing boats, etc. Do not get fooled into thinking you are safe from a DUI charge just because you are not on a speedboat on the lake.