The Illinois Department of Transportation, health care professionals and local law enforcement agencies have teamed up to show the price of driving without seat belts and while under the influence of alcohol.
A DUI conviction alone can cost $19,000. When adding fines, court costs and other fees, that number goes even higher. And if a hospital visit is needed, the financial impact is enormous.
The data does not include the emotional cost or trauma if a crash is involved.
The information was released as police step up impaired driving and safety belt enforcement during the holiday season.
