DUI: the Sobering Truth

              Jesse White
SECRETARY OF STATE
The privilege of driving
carries responsibilities
to protect not only the
driver but also
everyone on the road.
Drivers who neglect or
are unaware of the rules of the road
endanger more than just themselves.
Each year, more than 1,000 people are
killed and even more are injured because
of carelessness or disregard for the laws
governing Illinois roadways. The largest
factor contributing to injuries and loss of
lives on our roadways is driving under
the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other
drugs.
This brochure describes the laws,
penalties and other consequences of DUI.
Additional information may be found in
the Illinois Rules of the Road booklet or
the DUI Fact Book, available online at
www.cyberdriveillinois.com.
Please share this information with your
friends and family. You may prevent
someone from making a wrong decision.
You may save a life.
Jesse White
Secretary of State
DUI — MORE THAN JUST A TICKET
Being convicted of DUI or a related offense is more
than just a ticket — you face criminal charges and
penalties, will lose your driving privileges,
experience financial hardship and worse — you
could kill someone.
DRIVE RESPONSIBLY
Alcohol and drugs cloud judgment and the ability
to reason or make correct decisions, such as
whether or not to drive. Responsible drivers can
avoid an arrest for DUI by planning ahead:
• Use a designated driver—one who abstains from
drinking.
• Take public transportation or call a cab.
• Stay overnight.
BE A RESPONSIBLE HOST
Responsible hosts don’t let their guests drive drunk
or ride with a drunk driver. Pay attention to how
much alcohol is being served, limit the number of
drinks and stop serving alcohol one hour before
the event ends. Offer a variety of foods and have
plenty of non-alcoholic beverages available.
Additional suggestions for hosting a safe gathering
include:
• Collecting car keys when guests arrive so you
can determine if they are safe to drive home.
• Having a designated driver available to take
guests home.
• Inviting guests to stay overnight.
For more information or to schedule an educational
presentation on DUI and traffic safety laws, please
contact:
SECRETARY OF STATE
2701 S. Dirksen Parkway
Springfield, IL 62723
217-557-1458
or
17 N. State St.
Chicago, IL 60602
312-814-2905
www.cyberdriveillinois.com
Printed by authority of the State of Illinois • May 2002 100M DSD A-149.1 GA 582