Being charged with a DUI offense can have life-altering consequences. Often, the use of a vehicle is the sole means of a person’s employment. Additionally, not being able to drive could prevent you from dropping the kids off at school or visiting your loved ones.
As a result, it could be beneficial to gain a further understanding of DUI offenses. Outlined below are 3 common misconceptions about DUI offenses in Illinois:
If you make it home you cannot be charged
Frequently, individuals are of the opinion that if they manage to make it home they cannot be charged. However, this is by no means a guarantee. If law enforcement were informed of your suspected driving under the influence, and you exhibit all the signs of intoxication when they arrive, you could still find yourself in legal trouble.
You can only get a DUI by operating a car
Another common misconception is that you can only face DUI charges when operating a car. This is simply not the case. DUI offenses can apply if an individual is intoxicated while in charge of cars, boats, motorcycles, mopeds and go-karts as well as other vehicles outlined by the law in Illinois.
Placing a coin in your mouth will trick the breathalyzer
Most people have heard the common tale that a penny in the mouth will skew the results of a breathalyzer test. However, this theory has long been debunked. Placing a coin in your mouth will not impact the technology involved in obtaining your blood alcohol content.
Understanding the law relating to DUI offenses in Illinois could be in your best interests. As a road user, it is also important to know what legal protections you have.