Operation Drive Sober was in full swing over the weekend, resulting in the OWI arrests of fourteen drunk drivers in the Milwaukee area. Two of those arrested were repeat offenders, both with OWI-2nd; the remainder were first time Wisconsin OWI offenders. All those taken into custody were over the age of 21 and had an average BAC (blood alcohol content) of 0.16, double the legal limit.
Charges of Wisconsin operating while intoxicated (OWI) are very serious and can result in a number of consequences. First offense Wisconsin OWI may include fines, license suspension, an alcohol assessment, and the possibility that offenders will be required to install an ignition interlock device depending on the BAC level. The consequences for subsequent offenses only go up and will likely land those convicted in jail.
The definition of intoxication is not limited to alcohol use. For drivers 21 and older, the law defines OWI as driving with a BAC of 0.08% or greater, driving under the influence of intoxicants including alcohol, prescription meds, illegal or controlled substances, or other chemical substances - a catch all of sorts.
If drivers refuse to take a BAC when they are pulled over on the suspicion of driving while in intoxicated in the state of Wisconsin, they will be required to install an ignition interlock for a minimum of 1 year. That also goes for OWI repeat offenders and those who have a 0.15% BAC or higher. Costs for installation and monitoring the IID typically is the responsibility of the offender.
Whether you have been charged with Wisconsin OWI first offense or for repeat drunk driving, it is very important to seek the help of an experienced Wisconsin OWI attorney for help. If it is your first Wisconsin OWI offense, you may be able to have the charges dismissed or possibly amend an OWI charge down to a reckless driving charge, sometimes referred to as a wet reckless. Those charged with Wisconsin repeat OWI are in a precarious position as each subsequent charge results in a substantial increase in consequences - get a Wisconsin OWI lawyer ASAP.
Decades of OWI Defense Experience Matters - Contact Wisconsin OWI Charges Lawyers For Help
We Often Get OWI Charges Reduced, Amended or Dismissed!
If you or a family member is charged with Operating While Intoxicated, contact the Waukesha OWI criminal and traffic defense lawyers of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for immediate assistance today. Call 262-542-3900 for a free consultation so that you can make an informed decision regarding your representation when faced with Wisconsin OWI charges.
