Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Understanding DUI Leaving the Scene of an Accident Charges in DuPage County
In DuPage County, Illinois, drivers arrested for DUI leaving the scene of an accident face serious legal consequences. The cities of Naperville, Wheaton, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, and other communities within the county are known for their strict enforcement of DUI laws, and any accident involving a driver who leaves the scene will be thoroughly investigated.
Leaving the scene of an accident is a separate offense from Driving Under the Influence (DUI), but when both charges are filed together, the penalties are significantly more severe. Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-401 and 625 ILCS 5/11-501), drivers are legally required to stop, render aid, and exchange information after an accident. If alcohol or drugs are involved, the situation becomes even more complicated, as prosecutors will argue that the driver fled to avoid a DUI arrest.
