Illinois DUI Factors and Information

According to the Illinois Secretary of State's Office, the typical DUI offender in the state is a male under the age of 35. Most of these offenders are arrested on a weekend between the hours of 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. and are found to have a blood alcohol concentration level of .16 percent which is double the legal limit. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is influenced by the amount of alcohol consumed per hour and by individual factors such as weight, gender, whether the individual has eaten recently, general health and medical condition, and the individual's unique physical tolerance level for alcohol. Studies have shown that from the very first alcoholic drink, the reaction time, judgment, and physical coordination of the individual begins to be negatively affected. Alcohol affects the brain and nervous system which control one's motor skills.

Even below the legal limit of .08 percent, the individual's risk for being involved in a drunk driving-related accident begins to climb. A driver operating a vehicle with a .06 percent BAC already has doubled his or her likelihood of such an accident. At a .08 percent BAC, the probability of being involved in an auto crash has increased 11 times. According to studies on the subject, impairments at .08 percent BAC include deterioration in such driving skills as steering, braking, changing lanes, controlling one's speed, and estimation of distances as well as how fast one is traveling. Errors are easy to make when one is under the influence of alcohol, including the mistake of thinking one is fit to drive. This is borne out by the fact that 85 percent of those arrested for drunk driving in the state of Illinois are first-time offenders.

Chicago DUI Defense Attorney

Facing a DUI arrest and charge is a stressful and often humiliating experience. At such a time, you need the professional legal guidance of an attorney who knows how to go about investigating the facts and circumstances and helping forge a defense that can work in your favor. Even if you think your case may be hopeless, it always advantageous to consult an attorney on the matter. An experienced DUI lawyer will know and understand all of the scientific, technical, and legal factors which may have a bearing on your case and which may be used on your behalf.

At the Law Offices of Michael P. Schmiege, you can get the legal counsel you need from a Chicago DUI lawyer who serves the greater Chicago area, including Cicero, Berwyn, and Evanston. Mr. Schmiege provides aggressive and skilled legal representation in any type of DUI case, whether a misdemeanor or felony charge. He has been recognized as Rising Star by Super Lawyers, a distinction that only a small percent of Illinois attorneys have achieved. He offers a free case evaluation to help you learn what you are up against and what your legal options may be. To find out more about how he can assist you, contact the firm as soon as possible following any DUI arrest.