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Recent Blog Posts
Have Illinois Gun Laws Changed Since the COVID-19 Crisis?
Regulations regarding firearms and weapons are taken very seriously in the state of Illinois due to the possible risk that they can pose to citizens and the high number of shootings that occur in the United States every day. However, the debate continues — do people feel more or less safe with a gun in their hands? Many Americans argue that owning a gun and being able to defend themselves if necessary provides them with a high level of reassurance. Infringing on the Second Amendment is not something that all U.S. lawmakers necessarily wish to do, but keeping people safe is also one of their main priorities. For this reason, Illinois residents are able to possess a gun as long as they follow the rules and regulations that are in place. Coronavirus has resulted in many changes throughout the country, including gun regulations. COVID-19 has actually led to a spike in gun purchases and a loosening of these regulations to adhere to the societal changes resulting from this pandemic.
Can I Seek Damages if I Am Injured in an ATV Accident in Illinois?
With the month of May quickly approaching, the weather is finally starting to get warmer in Illinois. After a long and cold winter, many people like to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Once thought to be only for adrenaline junkies, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have increased in popularity the last few decades, especially the younger generation. Ideal for off-road recreational use, these vehicles can also be used for work purposes depending on the occupation. However, as with any motorized vehicle, they can be dangerous and a potential threat to riders if they are not used properly. Riders can suffer serious and even fatal injuries if they are involved in a collision.
Types of Off-Road Vehicles
An ATV is defined by the American National Standards Institute as a vehicle that travels on low-pressure tires, with a seat that the driver straddles, along with handlebars for steering control. It is designed to handle a variety of terrain, typically “off-road.”
A UTV, or utility task vehicle, is also intended for use over rough terrain, but two people can sit in the cab next to each other. For this reason, UTVs are often marketed as “side-by-sides.” ATV riders straddle the vehicle seat, while UTV riders sit on side by side on bench seats or bucket seats. Certain UTVs will fit in the definition of ATV as well, depending on weight and dimensions.
Under Illinois law, it is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV on any street, highway, or roadway. People typically use ATVs for recreation on farms, in mountainous areas, in addition to rural and coastal terrain.
What Are the Penalties for DUI With a Minor Passenger in Illinois?
There are many actions that can constitute a criminal offense in Illinois. The penalties can vary depending on the type of crime committed. Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is one of the most serious offenses a motorist can make. If a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 percent or higher, he or she can be charged with DUI. The consequences for this type of traffic violation vary depending on the circumstances. In certain situations, a drunk driver may not be alone and have one or several passengers. When the occupant of the vehicle is a child, the charges can be elevated. DUI with a child passenger can result in years behind bars and fines, not to mention loss of driving privileges. That is why it is important to hire a skilled criminal defense attorney to represent you if you are facing these serious charges.
What Are the Restrictions for New Teen Drivers in Illinois?
Getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage for many teenagers. After completing the classroom work and the required number of hours behind the wheel, many teens feel a sense of accomplishment when they finally become a licensed driver. They are excited and enthusiastic about hitting the road on their own. However, operating a motor vehicle takes practice, especially in traffic. In addition, there are many rules of the road that all drivers must obey to stay safe, regardless if they are traveling in a rural or urban area. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk of automobile accidents is higher among teens aged 16-19 compared to any other age group. A traffic violation can result in a traffic ticket or more serious consequences. Therefore, it is important to understand what constitutes a violation if your teen driver is facing criminal charges.
Can Illinois Residents Face Charges if They Violate COVID-19 Orders?
There is no denying the massive impact COVID-19 has had on millions of people all over the world. The new (novel) coronavirus that reportedly originated in China has now spread to other countries, including the United States. The influx of confirmed cases and reported deaths led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a global pandemic. Schools, along with non-essential businesses such as shopping malls, movie theaters, bars, restaurants, and sports venues have been closed temporarily. Health and government officials are urging people to practice “social distancing” in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. In many cities and states, there are “shelter in place,” isolation, or quarantine orders in place to protect the health and safety of its citizens. It is important to be aware of these restrictions to avoid any criminal charges.
What Is Overexertion and Bodily Reaction in a Work-Related Injury?
Following an injury at work, you may find yourself worrying about the time—and wages—lost at work, on top of the physical effects you will have to deal with. Even small injuries on the job can turn your whole life upside down, making simple daily tasks appear extraordinary.
Accidental injury can occur at any time, to even the most diligent workers, and the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission recorded nearly 38,000 injuries between 2015 and 2016. Topping the list was the category “Overexertion and bodily reaction,” representing an astonishing 40 percent of all recorded injuries. However, it might not always be readily apparent what types of injuries fall into this category of overexertion and bodily reaction. Below is an explanation of this type of workplace injury and how it applies to seeking workers’ compensation benefits.
What Are the Effects of a Brain Injury Caused by a Car Accident?
March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month in the United States. Recent studies have put a spotlight on head injuries, especially concussions related to sports. However, another common way someone can suffer head trauma or injury is by being involved n a car accident. In some scenarios, a vehicle occupant can hit his or her head on the window, door, or dashboard after colliding with another car. In other cases, a passenger may be ejected from the automobile, slamming his or her head on the pavement or even a tree or lamppost that is close to the roadway. If you are involved in a vehicle collision, it is imperative that you seek medical attention even if you do not feel the immediate effects of a brain injury. Your next step should be to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer to explore your options for seeking compensation.
When Is an Alcohol Treatment Program Required After an Illinois DUI?
Most people understand the dangers associated with impaired driving, yet many car accidents with injuries are caused by driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that in 2018, more than 10,000 people died in drunk-driving crashes in the United States. The state of Illinois takes drinking and driving offenses seriously.
Any driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or higher may be arrested for DUI. Penalties can range from license suspension to fines to prison time. In certain cases, an offender may be ordered to attend an alcohol treatment program as part of his or her punishment as a form of rehabilitation.
Evaluation and Hearing
In Illinois, any driver arrested for DUI who fails, refuses, or fails to complete chemical testing will automatically have his or her license suspended. If a person’s driver’s license is revoked due to a DUI conviction, he or she is required to attend a hearing with the Secretary of State before driving privileges are reinstated. Prior to the hearing, the offender must undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation. The purpose of the evaluation is to determine if the defendant’s alcohol and/or drug use poses a risk to public safety. Below are the main factors that are taken into account:
What Are the Most Common Slip and Fall Injuries in Illinois?
A “slip and fall” injury may sound minor, but such an injury can be debilitating for the victim. A person can suffer a serious injury as a pedestrian, a patron at a store or restaurant, or even as a visitor in someone else’s home. In some cases, proving premises liability can be complicated. Illinois premises liability law only applies when an injury is due to an unsafe condition that the property owner or operator knew about or should have known about and corrected. It is important to understand the laws regarding this if you are ever hurt under these circumstances.
The Premises Liability Act
Under Illinois law, the Premises Liability Act outlines what duty property owners have to individuals who enter their premises. If a property owner fails to take reasonable care to keep their land or structure safe, the state of Illinois may hold them accountable for damages that could occur to guests. This includes both individuals who are invited by a property owner (invitees) and people who are there for their own enjoyment (licensees).
What Are the Criminal Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Illinois?
Although recreational marijuana was legalized in Illinois as of January 1, 2020, there are still many other drugs that citizens cannot possess or distribute in the state. Under Illinois law, it is unlawful to manufacture, own, sell, or traffic controlled substances such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines. Drug trafficking is a serious crime in which a person knowingly brings a controlled substance for the purpose of delivery or with the intent to deliver it elsewhere.
Offenders are subject to serious criminal consequences, including prison and steep fines. These penalties are often doubled compared to drug possession charges. However, to be convicted of drug trafficking, the prosecution must prove the defendant knew he or she was bringing the controlled substance across state lines in addition to the ultimate goal of its delivery within or outside of the state.
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