Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer Andrew M. Weisberg – Facing Criminal Traffic Charges? Here’s How He Can Help

If you’ve been charged with a criminal traffic violation in Chicago, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. Criminal traffic charges are not just simple traffic tickets; they carry severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a lasting impact on your driving record. Whether you’ve been charged with reckless driving, DUI, or leaving the scene of an accident, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg to guide you through the legal process and defend your rights.

Traffic Accidents in Illinois: A Grim Reality

Traffic accidents are unfortunately all too common in Illinois. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were over 312,000 motor vehicle crashes on public roadways in Illinois in 2021. These accidents resulted in more than 83,000 injuries and nearly 1,300 fatalities. Of these, a significant number involved drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, highlighting the serious nature of DUI offenses in the state. The economic cost of traffic accidents in Illinois is staggering, with damages running into billions of dollars annually.

Consequences of Criminal Traffic Violations

Traffic accidents caused by negligence or reckless driving often lead to criminal charges, especially if they result in serious injuries or fatalities. A conviction for a criminal traffic offense can result in:

• Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the offense, you could face anything from a few days in jail to several years in prison.
• Hefty Fines: Convictions can carry fines ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, plus court costs.
• Loss of Driving Privileges: A conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, severely impacting your ability to work and fulfill daily responsibilities.
• Criminal Record: A criminal traffic conviction will leave you with a permanent criminal record, which can affect your employment opportunities and personal reputation.

Common Criminal Traffic Charges in Illinois

In Illinois, several traffic offenses are categorized as criminal, meaning they carry penalties that go beyond just a fine. Some of the most common criminal traffic charges include:

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – 625 ILCS 5/11-501

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most serious traffic offenses in Illinois. A first-time DUI offense is typically a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in up to 364 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a suspension of your driver’s license. However, if your DUI results in bodily harm or if you have prior DUI convictions, the charges can escalate to a felony with significantly harsher penalties.

Aggravated DUI – 625 ILCS 5/11-501

An aggravated DUI charge applies in cases where there are additional aggravating factors, such as driving without a valid license, driving with a child passenger, or causing a serious accident while under the influence. Aggravated DUI is a felony offense, with penalties ranging from 1 to 12 years in prison, depending on the circumstances.

Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License – 625 ILCS 5/6-303

Driving while your license is suspended or revoked is a serious offense. A first offense is usually a Class A misdemeanor, but repeated offenses or those involving DUI can lead to felony charges, resulting in longer jail terms and higher fines.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident – 625 ILCS 5/11-401

Leaving the scene of an accident, particularly one that results in injury or death, is a serious criminal offense in Illinois. This charge is typically a Class 4 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and fines up to $25,000. If the accident involves a fatality, the charge can escalate to a Class 2 felony, with a possible prison term of 3 to 14 years.

Fleeing and Eluding Police – 625 ILCS 5/11-204

Attempting to flee or elude law enforcement after being signaled to stop is a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the act involves speeding or causes bodily harm, the charge can escalate to a felony, resulting in harsher penalties.

Reckless Driving – 625 ILCS 5/11-503

Reckless driving, defined as operating a vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, is another serious traffic offense. A first offense is generally a Class A misdemeanor, but if reckless driving results in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement, the charge can be elevated to a Class 4 felony.

Reckless Homicide / Vehicular Homicide – 720 ILCS 5/9-3

Reckless homicide occurs when a driver unintentionally causes the death of another person through reckless driving. This is a Class 3 felony, carrying a prison sentence of 2 to 5 years. However, if the act is committed in a school zone or a construction zone, or if it involves a repeat offender, it can be charged as a Class 2 felony, with a potential prison sentence of 3 to 14 years.

Aggravated Speeding – 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5

Aggravated speeding occurs when a driver exceeds the speed limit by 26 miles per hour or more. This offense is a Class B misdemeanor if you are driving 26-34 mph over the limit, with penalties including up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,500. If you are caught driving 35 mph or more over the speed limit, the charge becomes a Class A misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $2,500.

How Andrew M. Weisberg Can Help You

When facing criminal traffic charges, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney on your side who understands the complexities of Illinois traffic laws. Andrew M. Weisberg is a former prosecutor with years of experience defending clients against serious traffic-related charges. He can help you by:

• Thorough Case Evaluation: During a free initial consultation, Mr. Weisberg will review the details of your case, including police reports, witness statements, and any other evidence. He will provide you with an honest assessment of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
• Aggressive Defense: Mr. Weisberg will develop a tailored defense strategy aimed at reducing or dismissing the charges against you. Whether it involves challenging the evidence, negotiating plea deals, or representing you in court, he will fight vigorously to protect your rights and your future.
• Expert Collaboration: When necessary, Mr. Weisberg collaborates with forensic experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to build a strong defense for your case.
• Personalized Attention: Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing each client with personalized attention and clear communication throughout the legal process. You can count on him to keep you informed and to be available to answer any questions or concerns.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been charged with a criminal traffic violation in Illinois, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and start building a strong defense on your behalf.

To reach Mr. Weisberg quickly and directly, call his cell phone at (773) 908-9811, or fill out the Case Review form on our website. The consultation is free, and you can trust Mr. Weisberg to provide the experienced, aggressive defense you need to protect your rights and your future.