Chicago DUI Accidents Lawyer

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founder, Joseph Conboy who has years of legal experience. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.

Last updated on: May 28, 2025

Joseph Conboy | January 20, 2025
Chicago DUI accidents lawyer

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious issue in Chicago. Drunk drivers put everyone on the road at risk. These crashes often result in serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and even wrongful death. Victims of DUI accidents deserve justice and fair compensation.

Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers are committed to helping victims of Chicago drunk driving accidents. Our Chicago DUI accidents lawyers understand the complexities of these cases. We fight to hold intoxicated drivers accountable and secure maximum compensation for our clients. Whether you’re dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering, we provide the legal support you need.

If a negligent driver has injured you or a loved one, don’t face this alone. Understanding Illinois DUI laws and your rights can make all the difference. 

Understanding DUI Laws with our Chicago DUI Accidents Lawyer

Understanding DUI Laws with our Chicago DUI Accidents Lawyer

Illinois takes driving under the influence very seriously. DUI laws are designed to prevent alcohol-impaired drivers from endangering others on the road. These laws apply to all drivers, including those operating cars, motorcycles, or other motor vehicles. Violating DUI laws can lead to severe consequences.

Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers help victims of drunk driving crashes know their rights. We fight for justice when impaired drivers cause harm. Our team ensures that negligent drivers are held accountable under Illinois law. Understanding these laws is the first step in pursuing compensation after a DUI accident.

Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits

In Illinois, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for most drivers. This means that if a driver’s BAC exceeds this level, they are considered legally impaired. For commercial drivers, the legal limit is even lower, set at 0.04%. Drivers under the age of 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any alcohol in their system is a violation of the law.

Alcohol affects a driver’s reaction time, judgment, and coordination. These impairments make it difficult to operate a vehicle safely, increasing the risk of car crashes. Law enforcement uses breathalyzer tests, blood tests, and field sobriety tests to determine a driver’s BAC.

Penalties for DUI Offenses

Illinois imposes strict penalties on drivers convicted of DUI. A first offense can lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time. For repeat offenses, the penalties become more severe, including longer license suspensions, mandatory alcohol education programs, and increased fines. Drivers with very high BAC levels or those who cause serious injuries may face enhanced penalties.

The state also enforces the Illinois Dram Shop Act, which holds establishments accountable for serving alcohol to intoxicated individuals who later cause harm. This law helps victims pursue compensation when a drunk driver is involved in a crash.

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What to Do if You Are Hit by a Drunk Driver in Chicago

What to do if you are hit by a drunk driver in Chicago

Being hit by a drunk driver can be a traumatic experience. Taking the right steps afterward is critical to protect your safety and legal rights. Start by ensuring everyone involved is safe and call 911 immediately to report the accident.

Some of the key actions you should take after a Chicago drunk driving accident to strengthen your case and protect your well-being are:

1. Ensure Safety

The first step is to ensure your safety and that of others at the scene. Move to a safe location if possible, but only if it’s safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and prevent further accidents. Checking on passengers and other individuals involved is also important.

2. Call 911

Immediately call 911 to report the accident. Inform the dispatcher if you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. Law enforcement will document the crash and may administer sobriety tests to the driver. This police report will be crucial evidence for your drunk driving accident case.

3. Document the Scene

Gathering evidence at the accident scene is vital. Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and any visible damages or injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. A detailed record of the crash helps strengthen your case against the negligent driver.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but could worsen over time. Medical records from your examination will also serve as key evidence in pursuing compensation for medical bills and other damages.

Compensation for Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois

Victims of drunk driving accidents in Illinois may be entitled to compensation for their losses. These damages aim to cover both the financial and emotional impact caused by the crash. Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers help clients pursue compensation to rebuild their lives after such incidents.

Compensation can include coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Victims may also seek damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term effects of their injuries. In cases of extreme negligence, courts may award punitive damages to hold the intoxicated driver accountable.

Illinois Drunk Driver Liability

In Illinois, drunk drivers are held accountable for the harm they cause. When a driver operates a vehicle while intoxicated and causes a crash, they are legally liable for the damages. This includes covering the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and other losses related to the accident.

Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers work to establish liability by investigating every detail of the accident. We build strong cases to ensure both drunk drivers and negligent establishments are held accountable. Our goal is to help victims recover the compensation they deserve after a drunk driving accident.

Work with Our Experienced DUI Lawyers After a Drunk Driving Accident

Work with our experienced DUI lawyers after a drunk driving accident

Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers are dedicated to helping victims of drunk driving accidents in Chicago. Our seasoned DUI attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take. We fight to secure maximum compensation for our clients.

Our team handles all aspects of your case. From investigating the car crash to negotiating with insurance companies, we ensure your rights are protected. Our goal is to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

You don’t have to face this process alone. With our experienced attorneys by your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal complexities.

Looking for a Personal Injury Lawyer? Contact Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers Today!

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FAQs

What should I do after being injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver?

After a car accident, ensure your safety, call 911, document the scene, and seek medical attention. Contact a qualified DUI attorney to know your rights under personal injury law and pursue compensation.

Can I hold a bar or restaurant liable for a drunk driving accident?

Yes, under the Illinois Dram Shop Law and Liquor Control Act, establishments that serve alcohol to an intoxicated person who causes an accident can be held accountable.

What damages can I recover after a drunk driving accident?

You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In some cases, you can also recover legal fees and punitive damages.

Does the drunk driver need to have a valid driver’s license to be held liable?

No, even if the driver does not have a valid driver’s license, they are still liable for damages caused by their actions.

How much does it cost to hire a DUI attorney?

Most DUI attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no upfront legal fees. They only receive payment if they win your case.

Contact Our Chicago DUI Accidents Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Contact our Chicago DUi accidents lawyer for a free consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers are here to help. Our dedicated Chicago DUI accidents lawyers are deeply familiar with personal injury law and are committed to securing justice for our clients.

We also pursue claims under the Illinois Dram Shop Law and Liquor Control Act, holding negligent establishments accountable when applicable. Whether the drunk driver has a valid driver’s license or not, they can still be held responsible for their actions.

Our team handles every aspect of your case, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies. You don’t have to face this alone. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve without upfront legal fees.

Joseph Conboy
Founding Attorney

Joseph M. Conboy, founder of Conboy Law, represents victims of catastrophic injuries and wrongful death, securing numerous multi-million-dollar results. Recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star (2019–2022), he is a member of the American Association for Justice and Illinois Trial Lawyers Association. Mr. Conboy earned his J.D. from DePaul University and a B.A. in Economics from the University of Colorado.

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