If law enforcement arrests someone for a DUI in Illinois, the consequences go beyond the driver’s record. The vehicle involved in the arrest can also face significant impacts. Here’s what typically happens to your car after a DUI arrest in Illinois.
Immediate vehicle impoundment
After a DUI arrest, the police often impound the vehicle. If the arrested individual can’t provide a sober, licensed driver to take the car, the police will tow it to an impound lot. The car will remain there until the person arranges for its release. In many cases, the individual will need to pay fees to get their car back.
The 12-hour hold
Illinois law imposes a 12-hour hold on any car that the police tow after a DUI arrest. This law ensures that the driver has time to sober up before they can retrieve the vehicle. Even if the arrested individual attempts to pay for the car early, they must wait the full 12-hour period. This mandatory hold prevents individuals from driving their vehicle while still under the influence.
Can the car be seized?
In certain cases, Illinois law allows authorities to seize a vehicle involved in a DUI arrest, especially if the driver has multiple offenses. If law enforcement catches the driver operating a vehicle with a suspended license due to a DUI, the authorities may seize the car under Illinois’ vehicle forfeiture laws.
What to do next
If the police impound the car, the driver must pay the impound fees and any related fines before retrieving it. In some cases, the driver may also need to install an ignition interlock device in the car, depending on the specifics of the charge and conviction.
A DUI arrest in Illinois has significant consequences, not just for the driver but for their vehicle as well. Understanding the process and the potential outcomes can help prepare individuals for what lies ahead.