As you are probably well aware, certain violations of the law can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. Many of the more obvious offenses are related to driving under the influence, such as the refusal to submit to or the failure of a blood alcohol content test. The responsibility for driver’s license suspensions and revocations falls upon the Office of the Secretary of State in Illinois. Under the law, the Secretary’s Office may impose suspensions in a number of other situations as well, including delinquent child support or underage drinking. However, even the most seemingly mundane traffic violations can result in the suspension of your license, depending on your driving history.

Moving Violations

The Illinois Vehicle Code, along with the Office of the Secretary of State, maintains a list of traffic offenses that are considered “moving violations.” The list includes most of the offenses you would expect, such as:

With the summer driving season rapidly approaching and the school year winding down, many in Illinois cannot wait to take to the roads in search of fun, relaxation, and leisure. The travel season, however, is not without its share of dangers, as many drivers, and in particular, young drivers, may be too focused on seeking excitement than adhering to the rules of the road. While certain offenses, like failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, may seem relatively insignificant, the reality is that any traffic violation can be a serious matter. Certain violations, such as aggravated speeding, are even subject to criminal prosecution under Illinois state law.

Definition of Aggravated Speeding

Many drivers justify speeding with claims that they are still driving safely. However, speed limits for a particular segment of roadway are established based on the features and conditions that impact the safety of motorists. Therefore, exceeding the speed limit places not only the speeding driver at risk, but those around him or her. A momentary lapse in attention or an unforeseen object in the road can lead to a deadly accident.

As the weather warms and spring rolls into Illinois, one of the surest signs of the season is the appearance of orange barrels on area roads and highways. A large number of roadway improvement projects get underway every year about this time, and 2015 is no exception. This year’s scheduled plans include a large-scale road widening and bridge rebuilding on Interstate 90, among many others. While such improvements are necessary for the long-term usability of the roadways, commuters and travelers are reminded that traffic violations in a construction zone carry increased fines and penalties.

The Illinois Tollway and the Illinois Department of Transportation estimate that more 4000 accidents occur in work zones throughout the state every year. Nearly a quarter of those result in injuries to occupants of the vehicle or road workers. In 2014, 29 deaths were related to construction zone accidents, including three workers. Many of these accidents, injuries, and fatalities could have been prevented by drivers paying closer attention to changing conditions and the safe operation of their vehicles.

Active or Not, Work Zones Can Be Dangerous