Final answer:
In Illinois, the penalty for a DUI with a child passenger under the age of 15 is a minimum fine of $1,000, a one-year license suspension, and up to 180 days in jail. Thus the correct option is (A).
Explanation:
When operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs in the state of Illinois, the presence of a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle can result in harsher penalties. This is due to the fact that driving under the influence with a minor in the car puts that child at an increased risk of harm. Thus the correct option is (A).
As a result, Illinois lawmakers have enacted stricter penalties for DUI offenders who have children in their vehicles at the time of arrest. The minimum fine for this offense is $1,000, which is significantly higher than the standard DUI fine of $500 to $2,500. In addition to the fine, offenders will also face a one-year license suspension and up to six months in jail for a first offense.
For subsequent offenses, the penalties become more severe, with longer license suspensions and increased jail time. These penalties serve as a deterrent to prevent individuals from driving under the influence with children in their vehicles and help to protect the safety of minors on Illinois roads.