Iowa OWI

If you are facing an Iowa OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), then you are charged with a serious misdemeanor crime. Iowa OWI is defined as driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher. There are many serious consequences to driving under the influence in Iowa. Before heading to Iowa OWI court, be sure to talk to a lawyer to protect your rights.

Consequences for Iowa OWI

Your Iowa OWI case is going to cost you. When you got to court, your judge may waive some of the fines you face if you did not injure anyone or his property while driving drunk. If you cannot pay the fine, you will have to perform community service. You can also be charged with jail time. You will have to spend two days in jail, and can be convicted for up to a year of jail time. Here is a summary of the convictions you face. 

First Offense Iowa OWI

• Jail time of 2 days
• $1000 in fines
• Drivers license revocation for 180 days
• Alcohol assessment and treatment

Second Offense Iowa OWI

• Up to 2 years in jail
• up to $5000 in fines
• Drivers license revocation for 1 year
• Alcohol assessment and treatment

Third Offense Iowa OWI

• Third offense owi in Iowa is considered a felony offense
• Up to 5 years in jail
• Up to $7500 in fines
• Drivers license revocation for 1 year

Administrative License Revocation

If you fail a breath test in Iowa, you are also facing your license being revoked by the DMV of Iowa. For a first offender, this revocation is for 180 days, with a temporary restricted license issued immediately as long as your BAC was less than .15. You will have to use an ignition interlock device if your BAC was .10 or higher. Repeat offenders are looking at a year of suspension. This is why it is crucial for those facing an Iowa OWI case to seek the help of a lawyer if they want to protect their right to drive.

OWI Auto Insurance and Alcohol Education Requirements

If you are convicted of an Iowa OWI, you will be required to attend twelve hours of alcohol education. This costs $60. You will also be required, in certain parts of Iowa, to attend a weekend program called “Intensive Weekend Intervention.” This is also a satisfaction for the two-day jail time requirement. This program costs $285. On top of the fines and education costs, your Iowa OWI will cause your insurance premium to go up. Make sure to talk to your insurance provider so you are not surprised by the amount of the increase.

Iowa OWI News Headlines