Great bodily harm is not statutorily defined in the DUI aggravation section, but Illinois case law construes it as bodily injury more severe than typical bruises or lacerations, generally involving substantial injury with lasting effect or requiring significant medical intervention. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-501(d)(1)(C), causing great bodily harm during a DUI is a Class 4 felony. The classification is factual and contested. The chicagoduilawyer.net brand routinely challenges great bodily harm allegations through defense-retained medical experts who can testify that emergency room diagnoses do not equate to statutory great bodily harm. Winning this classification battle reduces exposure by class levels.
