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 driver's license.
What are common OWI defenses in Iowa?
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.
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 concentration (BAC).
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.
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.
Be aware of increased DUI, traffic enforcement Thanksgiving week
The holiday season is a time when people celebrate, often with alcohol. High spirits and lack of planning often mean more drunk drivers on the road. That's why officers across the state of Iowa will be engaging in extra enforcement of traffic and DUI laws.
New York Times investigation finds breathalyzer tests unreliable
About a million people each year are arrested for drunk driving in the United States. When you're pulled over on suspicion of OWI, you will be asked to blow into a breathalyzer.
5 things to keep in mind if pulled over for OWI
The best defense against an operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge in Iowa is to refrain from drinking and driving. However, drivers often take to the road after having a drink or two and are pulled over by officers under suspicion of drunk driving.
The penalties for drinking and driving when under the age of 21
In Iowa, like many other places, the legal drinking age is 21. This isn't news to most people, nor would it be a surprise to acknowledge that people under the age of 21 sometimes also consume alcohol -- particularly college students living on their own for the first time.
How your prescriptions can lead to an OWI charge
When most people think of driving while under the influence, they first think of drunk driving. However, many do not realize the government might attempt to prosecute you for driving while taking prescription drugs. Because of Iowa's broad approach to controlled substances, those taking prescription medications can find themselves unfairly charged.
