High Incidence of DUIs in Chicago Suburbs

 Posted on August 19, 2014 in Personal Injury

In addition to the criminal charges and penalties a driver who is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) may face, he or she may also face additional consequences if involved in an accident that caused damage or injury. Along with being charged with the crime of DUI, a criminal defendant may face additional and more serious criminal charges for causing harm to another, be ordered to pay restitution when being sentenced, and face civil penalties should they be sued for their actions. Under circumstances where those charged with a DUI were involved in or caused an accident, he or she risks liability for potentially significant damages owed to the victim or victims of their actions, should a civil lawsuit be brought against them.

DUIs in Chicago Suburbs

Some information suggests that DUI arrests may be especially prevalent in the Chicago suburbs. According to a recently published news article, four western suburbs of Chicago rank in the top ten Illinois communities for highest number of DUI arrests in the year 2013. The article said the community of Rockford was ranked first out of the top 10, with a total of 556 DUI arrests made last year. The suburb of Naperville came in second place, with 553 arrests having been made for DUI. The remainder of the notable Chicago suburbs on the list were Carol Stream, ranked at number five on the list with 392 arrests for DUI, Elmhurst came in sixth place with 300 DUI arrests, and Aurora rounded out the top 10 in tenth place across the state of Illinois, with officers in that area having arrested a total of 256 people for DUI. Other notable Chicago suburbs that were ranked in the top 25 for DUI arrests included Wheaton and Lombard.

The survey was completed by a group called the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists. They compiled the data regarding DUI arrests throughout the state of Illinois, which is done every year. Part of the reason for the survey is to determine how many DUI-related arrests police officers make in the state of Illinois and to recognize the police departments that are the most productive in combatting drinking and driving.

DUIs Causing Injury

While it is a positive thing that police officers and law enforcement are taking steps to curtail and punish drunk driving, the numbers reflected above show that drivers still choose to do so. This not only results in serious consequences for the driver should they be arrested for DUI, but potentially devastating consequences for anyone injured or killed as a result of being in an accident with a drunk driver. Those who are victims of such actions have important rights under the law by which they can be compensated for their injuries.

Illinois Accident Injury Attorney

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, the compassionate DuPage County personal injury attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can assist you with your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.