According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Wisconsin has the highest rate of drunk driving in the nation and operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) continues to be the deadliest crime in the state. Alcohol related crashes kill hundreds in the state every year and many more are injured.
The penalties for drunk driving may include jail, fines and penalties, license suspension and require the installation of an ignition interlock device. A first time OUI/DUI offender will face a mix of penalties ranging from $150 to $300 and a license suspension of up to 9 months. A second or third OWI conviction will likely result in a period of incarceration, fines and penalties which could climb into the thousands, loss of license and the installation of an ignition interlock device. If someone is hurt or killed, the consequences become even more serious.
The blood alcohol content limits in Wisconsin for those under 21 is .02%; 21 and older .08%; commercial operators .04%. If you are suspected of operating while intoxicated, you are subject to Wisconsin’s implied consent law. Wisconsin law requires you to take a blood, breath, or urine test if you are arrested for a OWI/DUI to determine your BAC. If you refuse the test, you may be subject to penalty and automatic loss of license. You could be asked to take a preliminary breath test prior to arrest to establish probable cause that you were driving under the influence - lack of cooperation will likely result in arrest in order to enforce the implied consent requirement if drunk driving is suspected.
If you have been arrested for Wisconsin OWI/DUI, it is strongly recommended that the driver seek an attorney’s assistance. It may be possible to plead down a OWI/DUI to a wet reckless in Wisconsin to reduce fines, stay out of jail and keep your record clean. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider when making a plea arrangement. If you need help with a Wisconsin drunk driving charge, contact the criminal defense Law Offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for aggressive drunk driving defense representation.
