Understanding Underage DUI Penalties in Chicago

The Consequences for Underage Drinking and Driving

Drinking and driving can have devastating consequences, especially when drivers are underage. The lack of experience with alcohol and the limited amount of driving in their lives creates a lethal combination. Young drivers are likely to be distracted in the vehicle with friends or engage in other distractions that create unsafe conditions. When alcohol is involved, it increases the danger in a major way.

Because teenagers have a much greater risk than other age groups of dying during accidents where alcohol is involved, Illinois practices a zero-tolerance policy for underage drivers who are intoxicated. But what exactly does that mean?

Illinois is a Zero Tolerance State

With the legal drinking age in Illinois is 21 years old, any person caught drunk behind the wheel suffers strict penalties under the law when they are underage. DUI convictions become part of someone's permanent record and can close many doors in the future, especially when it comes to getting into college, applying for jobs, and even maintaining independence.

Penalties for Underage Drinking and Driving

There are strict penalties for drinking and driving, especially if the driver is underage. If convicted, the driver may face any of the following consequences:

• Pay a fine up to $2,500 and spend up to one year in jail.
• Be required to attend a youthful intoxicated driver's program.
• Suspension of driving privileges for two or more years.
• More serious penalties for repeat offenders who have multiple DUI convictions.

DUI Attorneys in Chicago

At The Toney Law Firm, our team of compassionate Chicago DUI defense attorneys has been helping individuals fight their charges for countless years. We are firm believers that mistakes happen, and people can change when given the opportunity, and we want to help make that possible.