Learn About Indiana’s Drunk Driving Laws

All 50 states have outlawed drinking and driving on some level in an attempt to keep their communities safe. Indiana’s drinking and driving law is called “operating while intoxicated,” or OWI. Those charged with OWI may face license suspensions, jail time, fines, and other serious penalties.

OWI defined  

Indiana Code Section 9-30-5 defines OWI. If a driver’s blood alcohol content is at 0.08 percent or higher, the state has concluded that no other evidence is needed to charge the driver with OWI.

For a first offense, a driver charged with OWI may lose his license for a period of between 90 days and 2 years. A second offense carries a license suspension period of between 180 days to 2 years, and a third offense may carry a license suspension of between 1 and 10 years.

First offenses may also carry jail sentences of up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. The driver may be charged with a felony if serious bodily injury or death results in a crash.

The driver’s record, blood alcohol level, nature of any accidents that occurred, and several other factors are considered when issuing a sentence to someone charged with OWI.

How an attorney can help  

OWI defense attorneys are able to review the evidence of a case and determine if it was properly obtained and if it truly meets the definition of a crime. In some cases, charges are reduced or dismissed because police officers failed to follow proper procedures when making an arrest.

At Webster & Garino LLC, our attorneys fight OWI charges 

The OWI defense attorneys at Webster & Garino have assisted many Indiana residents with having their charges reduced or dismissed. To schedule a free consultation with our firm, call 317-565-1818.

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