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Controversial DUI Laws in Iowa

The state of Iowa is quite strict with respect to DUI laws. It is considered to be illegal to drive a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or more. This BAC legal limit is even lesser for commercial drivers or those who are under the age of 21. Iowa follows OWI instead of DUI which indicates “Operating While Intoxicated”

 
 

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Features of DUI Laws in Iowa

If you are driving a vehicle while being intoxicated, it indicates that you are drunk. It is difficult to calculate the number of drinks you have had to reach the DUI limit as it dependent on various factors like your weight, sex, body-fat percentage and the time interval between drinks. Studies indicate that each drink will cause an increase in BAC by about 0.05 per cent. Each drink taken will lead you to becoming an “impaired” driver. According to the DUI laws of the State of Iowa, it is an offense to drink and drive and you will be risking your career, finances as well as driving license by doing so.

The Implied Consent Law in Iowa

The implied consent law in Iowa indicates that if you are driving a vehicle in the State of Iowa, then you are readily submitting to a chemical test of your blood, breath or urine whenever you are stopped by a law-enforcement officer or police. This is due to the evidence he has against you for being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you refuse to give a sample, they will cancel your license and you will not be able to drive a vehicle. A refusal for the first time will lead to suspension of the license for a period of 1 year. You will also not get a restricted license for at least 90 days after the effective date of revocation. If you want to get permission for restricted license, then you need to install an ignition interlock device.

Consequences of DUI Laws in Iowa

First offense DUI in Iowa is a serious misdemeanor and can lead to imprisonment of about 1 year and/or a fine of around $1,500. Along with this, you will also face mandatory minimum penalty which includes 2 days in jail and a $1,250 fine plus 32% government surcharge of $400. To avoid these, you can opt for a deferred judgment provided you have not refused the direct breath test at the station and you have not had any previous conviction or deferred judgment for DUI.

Your Iowa DUI case can result in you spending a lot of money, but sometimes if you go to court, your judge may reduce the fine amount provided that you have not caused any serious injury to anyone while drunk driving. If you are unable to pay the decided amount as fine, then you can opt for performing community service.

Therefore, the consequences of DUI in Iowa are quite stringent and can lead to heavy penalties. It is recommended to avoid drinking while driving.