With laws becoming increasingly tough on drunk drivers, being accused of driving under the influence can be quite alarming. Even a first-offense DUI conviction can yield sharp penalties for the defendant, ranging from loss of driving privileges and jail time to probation and steep fines. The penalties incurred for driving while under the influence are enhanced if the person who is accused of DUI is also accused of causing a fatal accident.
A 27-year-old Chicago woman was charged recently with two counts of felony aggravated DUI causing death stemming from a crash that occurred on West 87th Street. Police say she allegedly hit and killed a 34-year-old woman and a 39-year-old man who were changing a tire on their vehicle.
Authorities allege that the woman, who is from the Humboldt Park community, kept on driving after hitting the two people. Police say that the woman was stopped two blocks away after witnesses helped police find her. She is charged with reckless driving, driving without a license, driving without insurance and failing to render aid, among other things. It’s likely that more severe charges will be added because of the deaths.
Although the outcome of this particular case is yet to play out in the courts, any driver who is charged with driving while intoxicated should seek out legal advice as soon as possible after being arrested. It’s also imperative to establish the credibility of the witnesses who helped the police identify the alleged perpetrator.
Source: Nbcchicago.com, “Woman Charged in Double Fatal Hit-and-Run,” Jan. 28, 2013
