City of Fort Dodge, Iowa

Zero Fatalities Iowa

Click here for a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) calculator.

Click here to download "The ABC's of BAC" brochure.

• If a driver refuses to take a blood, breath, or urine test, they will be subject to a fine and automatic license suspension ranging from 1-2 years.
• Teens are subject to an OWI if they are driving and have consumed even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs.
• OWIs have a look-back period. This means that prior OWIs are relevant for sentencing. Even if the offense was committed out of state, a driver who has been convicted of OWI within the last 12 years will be levied a more severe punishment.
• Some substances can remain in the bloodstream for up to several months, resulting in an OWI even after the initial consumption.
• Depending on the specifics of a case, an OWI may also be punishable by:
  • Seizing, impounding, or immobilizing the vehicle
  • Requiring the driver to undergo substance abuse treatment at a personal expense
  • Requiring the driver to install an ignition interlock device (a Breathalyzer system that prevents a vehicle from being started if a driver has a BAC over the limit)

Source: https://zerofatalitiesiowa.com/drivesober