Impaired Driving

Zero Fatalities Iowa

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Click here for a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) calculator.

Click here to download "The ABC's of BAC" brochure.

FIRST OFFENSE SECOND OFFENSE THIRD OFFENSE
JAIL 48 hours to 1 year 7 days to 2 years 30 days to 5 years
FINES & PENALTIES $625-$1,200 $1,875-$6,250 $3,125-$9,375
LICENSE SUSPENSION 180 days 2 years 6 years
CHARGE OWI Aggravated misdemeanor Class "D" felony

  • If a driver refuses to take a blood, breath, or urine test, they will be subject to a fine and automatic license suspension ranging from 1-2 years.
  • Teens are subject to an OWI if they are driving and have consumed even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs.
  • OWIs have a look-back period. This means that prior OWIs are relevant for sentencing. Even if the offense was committed out of state, a driver who has been convicted of OWI within the last 12 years will be levied a more severe punishment.
  • Some substances can remain in the bloodstream for up to several months, resulting in an OWI even after the initial consumption.
  • Depending on the specifics of a case, an OWI may also be punishable by:
    • Seizing, impounding, or immobilizing the vehicle
    • Requiring the driver to undergo substance abuse treatment at a personal expense
    • Requiring the driver to install an ignition interlock device (a Breathalyzer system that prevents a vehicle from being started if a driver has a BAC over the limit)

Source: https://zerofatalitiesiowa.com/drivesober

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