Iowa OWI Law Explained

The crime of drunk driving in the State of Iowa is referred to as "Operating While Intoxicated" (OWI). A person commits the offense of operating while intoxicated if the person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of alcohol or drugs. In addition, Iowa's per se OWI law makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle anywhere in the state with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. A blood or urine test result that reveals the presence of any amount of controlled substance will also result in an OWI charge.  "Operation" is defined by the Iowa Supreme Court as the "immediate, actual physical control over a motor vehicle that is in motion and/or has its engine running.

Driving under the influence charges in Iowa

MINORS - Under Iowa OWI law, persons under the age of 21 are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle while have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .02 or higher.

HOMICIDE BY VEHICLE - Under Iowa OWI law, if a person unintentionally causes the death of another by operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, they will be charged with a class B felony.

SERIOUS INJURY BY VEHICLE - If a person unintentionally causes a serious injuy by operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated in Iowa, they will be charged with a class D felony. "Serious injury" means a bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death, or which causes serious permanent disfigurement, or which causes protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily organ or major bodily member, or which causes the loss of any bodily member.