Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) carries potentially serious legal consequences. These include fines, imprisonment, and loss of driving privileges. Read below how an OWI charge can result in a revoked or suspended driver’s license in Wisconsin.
Refusing a Blood Alcohol Test
Motorists in Wisconsin give “implied consent” for a blood alcohol content (BAC) test if a law enforcement officer has “reasonable suspicion” of OWI. Therefore, a refusal by the motorist of this test results in at one-year revocation of the driver’s license. Those with prior instances of refusing the test may face longer periods of a revoked license. Swerving, weaving, other erratic driving, and avoiding check points may allow an officer to suspect OWI. Brookfield OWI lawyers determine whether an officer had reasonable grounds to stop a driver for OWI.
Failing a Blood Alcohol Content Test
Those who fail a blood alcohol content test may lose their license for six months. The default BAC level stands at 0.08%. For drivers younger than age 21 years, a BAC of 0.02% triggers the six-month revocation. The same applies to those with at least three OWI convictions. Commercial drivers may not have any alcohol in the system while operating a commercial vehicle.
Conviction for Operating While Intoxicated
Brookfield OWI lawyers examine driving records in getting the best possible results for OWI defendants. Depending on the number of prior OWI offenses, a conviction may mean a suspension or revocation from six months to a permanent loss of driving privileges.
Occupational License
Revocations and suspensions may interfere with an offender’s ability to support self or family. To alleviate this circumstance, Wisconsin affords eligible motorists an “occupational license.” This limited form of driving privilege allows a revoked or suspended license holder to drive to work, school, and certain establishments (such as grocery stores, pharmacies, medical facilities, and banks).
Michael Hayes has three decades of experience representing OWI defendants. Contact The Law Office of Michael Hayes, LLC to get help with OWI charges and the potential loss of driver’s licenses.
