Huntley Police Share DUI Insights

A $15 ride can prevent the $15,000 cost associated with a driving under the influence charge, when it takes an impaired driver off the road.

Many drivers do not realize the outcomes of getting behind the wheel after having a few cocktails — or even just one alcoholic drink. Others know the risks of driving while impaired, the danger imposed on others who might be injured or killed by a drunken motorist. Yet, all too often, driver cast aside the options of calling a cab or enlisting a designated driver.

Huntley Police Department Officer in Charge Theo Kallantzes shared some DUI insights to keep in mind this New Year’s Eve. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol has financial, criminal and personal ramifications that can start 2012 off on a tragic note.

Did you know …

The legal limit for blood alcohol content in Illinois is .08, but drivers with lower level still can be impaired and charged with DUI.

“A lot of drinkers are functional drinkers and have high limits, but other people can have a lower limit and be a lot more affected when they’re driving,” Kallantzes said. “For example if someone takes a Breathalyzer test and blows a .04, technically they’re not over the limit, but they might still be impaired.”

If the officer on the traffic stop assesses the driver’s functionality and determines he or she is impaired, DUI charges still can be filed, Kallantzes said.

“Especially at the holidays a lot of people are drinking, and they might not be used to it,” he said.

Speeding, driving in the wrong lane, not using a signal, or driving with high beams are the most common behaviors that result in traffic stops for impaired motorists, Kallantzes said. Upon speaking with the driver, the officer then assesses the individual for bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and confusion about travel direction. A field test for eye and muscle coordination might be given next and, if necessary, a breath test is administered.

“With the administrative fees for towing the vehicle, court costs, lawyer’s fees, time off work, the average DUI costs up to $15,000 when it’s all over,” said Kallantzes. “It’s not worth it when you can just take a cab.”