Driving Under the Influence and the Death of a Loved One

 Posted on June 29, 2017 in DUI

Driving under the influence can land you in a lot of legal trouble, but there are other potential consequences that one should be aware of before getting behind the wheel. Accidents are common for intoxicated drivers, and those that have someone with them could pay the ultimate price: the death of a loved one. Then, to make matters worse, there may be criminal charges associated with both the crash and the death. Learn how a criminal defense lawyer can help you fight the charges, and why it is worth pursuing.

Overcoming the Guilt

Perhaps the most difficult aspect is not the criminal charges themselves, but the grief and self-blame that may stem from the death of your loved one. Perhaps you feel as though you deserve the consequences that come your way. Alternatively, you may not care or you may feel as if you do not have the energy to fight back. Either way, it is important to remember this: your loved one would not want you in jail.

Your loved one would not want you to pay with your own life – either in quality or in quantity. Also remember that the facts, as they have been told to you, may not be fully accurate. It is possible that your chemical test was faulty, or that the crash was actually someone else's fault. So do not simply accept the consequences. Make a vow that you will strive to move forward, if for no other reason than to honor the memory of your loved one.

Death in a DUI Crash

Any DUI can result in jail time, fines, license suspensions, and other consequences. However, those that involve the death of another person are often treated more severely. There may be elevated charges and consequences, even if it is your first offense. In fact, there have been cases in which first-time DUI drivers have been charged with felony offenses because someone died in a crash. Do not let this happen to you. Fight back with help from an experienced lawyer.

How an Attorney Can Help

Because each situation is unique, it is critical that you contact an attorney about your case as soon as possible. Doing so can ensure your lawyer has time to strategize, and it can reduce the risk of you saying or doing something that may compromise your case. They can also protect your rights, ensuring you are treated fairly throughout the entire process.

When you need an aggressive advocate on your side, contact the Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C. for assistance. Our seasoned Joliet DUI defense lawyers will fight for the most favorable outcome in your case. Learn more by scheduling a personalized consultation. Call 815-733-5350 today.

Source:

http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/woman-faces-felony-dui-in-husband-s-death/article_2991692e-4e55-5197-a155-4e0698d949a6.html

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf