Being charged with an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) in Iowa is a serious matter with harsh consequences that extend far beyond the immediate legal penalties. One significant and often underestimated repercussion of an OWI conviction is the dramatic increase in car insurance rates. Please continue reading as we explore how an OWI can impact your car insurance rates in Iowa and how a skilled Des Moines OWI Lawyer can fight your charges at every turn.
What Are the Penalties for an OWI in Iowa?
In Iowa, you are legally intoxicated if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is measured at 0.08% or higher. While the 0.08% BAC limit applies to all motorists, underage motorists are held to a zero-tolerance policy. Those under the legal drinking age of 21 are considered OWI when their BAC measures 0.02% or higher. Commercial drivers are OWI when their BAC rears 0.04% or higher. However, it’s important to note that you can face an OWI charge with any amount of alcohol in your system if law enforcement determines it has impacted your ability to operate your vehicle safely.
The penalties for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated are severe. If this is your first OWI offense, it will be considered a misdemeanor. A second offense is classified as an aggravated misdemeanor. Third and subsequent OWI offenses are Class D felonies. All OWI convictions require motorists to complete a course for driving under the influence and/or complete a substance abuse evaluation and treatment or undergo rehabilitation. Upon a conviction for a first offense, you may be subject to 180-day license revocation, up to one year in jail, a potential fine of $1,250, and an interlock ignition device if your BAC is 0.10% or higher.
How Will an OWI Conviction Impact My Car Insurance Rates?
One significant and often overlooked consequence of an OWI charge is the sharp increase in car insurance rates. When auto insurance companies determine their premiums, they assess risk. An OWI conviction signifies dangerous driving behavior, making you a higher risk to insure as there is a higher likelihood of future claims. Drunk driving demonstrates a complete disregard for safety. As a result, insurance companies will raise your premiums to offset the perceived risk.
In Iowa, there is a 12-year “look-back” period for OWI offenses. This means that prior OWI convictions within the past 12 years will be used to enhance penalties for current offenses and impact your insurance rates long after legal proceedings have concluded and your sentence is completed. The increased premiums associated with being classified as a “high-risk” driver can be a long-term financial burden, adding to the already substantial costs that result from an OWI conviction. Even if you can find a new insurance provider, you will likely face higher premiums than motorists with clean driving records.
If you are facing OWI charges in Iowa, don’t underestimate the potential consequences for your car insurance rates and financial well-being. Seek the guidance of an experienced Des Moines criminal defense lawyer from Herting Law, PLLC, who can help defend your rights and interests. It’s crucial to remember that your future is at stake, and having a strong legal team on your side can make all the difference. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can advocate for you during this challenging situation.
