A diverse region nestled in the heartland of America, the Hoosier state is rich with natural beauty and history. While it may seem like a tranquil oasis in the Midwest between the 2 bustling coasts, Indiana is far from serene to any resident facing a OWI. If you are charged with OWI in Indiana it is important to understand the law and find a qualified OWI attorney to advise you.
A OWI is nothing to take lightly. Known as OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) in Indiana, this is a serious charge with consequences further reaching than the direct penalties from the court. A OWI charge can bring higher insurance costs, difficulty finding insurance coverage, employment / military service troubles, and restricted interstate or international travel. Court conviction may lead to heft fines, license suspensions, and jail time.
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
In Indiana driving a vehicle with a BAC of .08 or greater is OWI. Law enforcement determines your Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) from tests that take samples of urine, blood, or breath. You are also OWI in Indiana if your BAL is .02 and you are under 21. Or if your BAL is .04 and you are a commercial driver.
Administrative License Suspension
Not to be confused with criminal charges, drivers’ licenses will be suspended when pulled over if the driver refuses chemical testing or fails the chemical test. Testing .08 or higher results in a 180 day license suspension. Refusal to test can yield a 1 year suspension. Greater penalties are probable for repeat offenders.
OWI Penalties
In addition to the administrative license suspension, OWI convicts are subject to license suspension, a fine upwards of $5000, alcohol treatment, and jail time. First time offenders are subject to lesser penalties than repeat convicts.
Ignition Interlock
The state of Indiana also employs an ignition interlock device for certain OWI offenders. This device requires the driver to provide a breath sample before driving and at random times while driving. If the sensor registers alcohol in the driver’s breath the vehicle will not start or turn off during operation.
Get Help!
We’ve done all the work finding qualified OWI attorneys in Indiana. With the assistance and guidance of a skilled lawyer who works with cases like yours every day you may be able to lessen the blow of a OWI conviction if not have it completely dismissed. The only way to receive fair treatment in the courtroom is having a knowledgeable OWI lawyer on your side!