Driving under the influence continues to pose serious threats to public safety across the nation. Recent reports from Nevada highlight a particularly alarming case in which a young driver allegedly caused significant property damage while operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Although this incident occurred outside of Illinois, it offers a timely reminder of how Illinois law treats similar offenses, particularly those involving underage drivers. If you or your teen is charged with an Illinois DUI offense, it is smart to talk to an attorney about your possible defenses.
Alleged Collision and Arrest
It is reported that law enforcement officers in Mohave County, Nevada, arrested a 19-year-old driver on five counts of driving under the influence after a vehicle allegedly crashed into a home. According to police, the incident took place in the early evening hours when deputies responded to a collision in a residential area. Upon arrival, deputies found that a red truck had plowed through the front wall of a residence, causing extensive structural damage.
Allegedly, both the driver and a male passenger were trapped inside the vehicle and had to be extracted by emergency personnel. They were then transported for medical treatment. Fortunately, the homeowners confirmed that no one was inside the house at the time of the crash. During the subsequent investigation, deputies reportedly detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from both occupants and discovered an open container of liquor inside the truck. It is alleged that the driver became belligerent with officers during the investigation. A blood test reportedly revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.267%, which is more than three times the legal limit of 0.08%. The defendant was then booked into the Mohave County Adult Detention Facility on multiple DUI-related charges.
Teen Driver DUI Laws in Illinois
Illinois has particularly strict laws governing underage drinking and driving. Under the state’s Zero Tolerance Law (625 ILCS 5/11-501.8), any driver under the age of 21 who is found to have consumed any measurable amount of alcohol—even less than the standard 0.08% threshold, faces immediate administrative penalties. If a chemical test reveals any trace of alcohol, the driver’s license will be suspended for at least three months for a first offense and one year for a subsequent violation.
If the underage driver’s BAC measures 0.08% or higher, or if they are determined to be impaired, they may be charged with a full DUI offense in addition to the Zero Tolerance violation. This means the driver could face both criminal prosecution and administrative license suspension. For drivers under 21, a DUI conviction can result in license revocation for a minimum of two years, even for a first offense.
Illinois law also imposes additional sanctions for underage DUI cases involving aggravating factors, such as accidents resulting in bodily harm or property damage. In such cases, the offense may be prosecuted as an aggravated DUI, a felony under Illinois law. In addition to fines and potential jail time, underage offenders may face mandatory alcohol education, community service, and installation of an ignition interlock device upon reinstatement of driving privileges.
These provisions reflect Illinois’ firm stance on preventing impaired driving among minors, emphasizing both deterrence and rehabilitation. The Zero Tolerance approach reinforces that any level of alcohol consumption is incompatible with lawful driving for individuals under 21.
Speak with a Trusted Illinois DUI Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know has been charged with DUI, it is vital to seek skilled legal representation immediately. Attorney Theodore J. Harvatin of the Harvatin Law Offices, PC, is a trusted Illinois DUI defense attorney with extensive experience defending clients accused of DUI offenses across Illinois, including those involving underage drivers. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact Mr. Harvatin at (217) 525-0520 or use the firm’s online form.