The state of Iowa sets a standard for alcohol impairment at .08 blood alcohol content level for those who are stopped while operating a motor vehicle. In fact, motorists can even be cited for "wet" reckless driving when the content level is above .05 BAC. However,...
Drunk Driving
Overview of a legal search of a vehicle after an OWI stop
It is important for Iowa motorists to know what a law enforcement officer can and cannot do after pulling a driver over on a suspicion of operating while intoxicated. One of the questions that often comes up is whether a police officer is able to search a vehicle when...
What to do after a traffic stop in Iowa
It can feel unsettling to see flashing red lights in your rearview mirror during a drive home at night. You wonder what prompted police to pull you over. Regardless of what charges they may attempt to pursue you on, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:...
Penalties for refusing drunk driving tests in Iowa
In Iowa, impaired driving is called an OWI, or operating while intoxicated. Law enforcement may effectuate a traffic stop if they have probable cause or reasonable suspicion to stop a motor vehicle. Once stopped, if a law enforcement officer develops suspicion that a...
What are common OWI defenses in Iowa?
Operating a motor vehicle under the influence (OWI) of alcohol or drug charges and convictions in Iowa can have a devastating impact on a person's life, even for a first offense. If arrested, you face a criminal case over the OWI charge and a civil matter involving...
Your metabolic rate affects how drunk you get
Everyone has seen the one guy at the bar who seems to be able to toss back beers and shots, then get up and walk a straight line. Then there are others who get tipsy and lightheaded from a single glass of wine. How is that possible?It could have to due with the rate...
Motorists should question the credibility of field sobriety tests
Motorists coming home from the bar may feel anxious if police stop them. In some cases, it doesn't matter if you're not impaired or below the legal limit; an officer may still choose to charge you with an OWI.Many have started to question how authorities determine...
Why breathalyzer results can be challenged
If you're stopped for suspicion of drunk driving, the officer will ask you some basic identifying questions and then may proceed to conduct some field sobriety tests. There is a high chance they will have you blow into a breathalyzer to determine your blood alcohol...
Increased OWI enforcement for St. Patrick’s Day begins now
You may need more than the luck of the Irish to get home safely on St. Patrick's Day. It's one of the biggest nights of the year for drinking, and that means there will be a lot of impaired drivers on the roadways Tuesday -- and also this weekend.That's why there will...
Holiday OWI, traffic enforcement period continues through New Year
The holiday season is a time when people have a lot going on, from workplace events to neighborhood get-togethers and family parties. Alcohol is ubiquitous, and some people will indulge too much before driving.According to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, 800...
