Operating a vehicle while intoxicated in Indiana is considered a serious offense, and the state imposes strict penalties for individuals caught operating their vehicle while using alcohol or drugs. In the guide below, we will provide a comprehensive overview of Indiana’s driving under the influence (DUI) laws and what they can mean for you.
Drunk Driving Laws in Indiana
Indiana state laws prohibit driving under the influence, also known as operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). These laws also go into detail about blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits, implied consent to alcohol and drug testing if you are operating a vehicle, criminal sentences, and driver’s license suspensions.
In Indiana, a motorist is considered intoxicated if they have a certain BAC. However, this limit will change depending on the legal drinking age and whether the driver operates a commercial vehicle. Consider the following:
- A motorist operating a non-commercial vehicle over the age of 21 is considered intoxicated with a BAC of .08% or higher.
- A motorist above the age of 21 who is operating a commercial vehicle is considered to have committed a violation if they have a BAC at or above .04%.
- Any motorist under the age of 21 is considered to have committed a violation if they have a BAC of .02% or above.
Possible DUI Penalties in Indiana
The penalties for a DUI in Indiana tend to become more severe if a person has already been convicted of an impaired driving offense. The table below shows some of the possible consequences that can result from drunk driving.
| Offense | Fines | Jail Time | License Suspension |
| First offense | Up to $5000 | Up to one year | Up to two years but restricted driving privileges may be granted after 30 days |
| Second offense | Up to $10,000 | Anywhere from five days to three years | Anywhere from six months up to two years |
| Third offense | Up to $10,000 | Ten days to three years | One to ten years |
Other Consequences of a DUI in Indiana
Depending on the facts of the case, a drunk driving conviction can also result in consequences outside those mentioned above, including:
- Alcohol/ substance abuse education classes
- Additional expenses related to court fees, reinstatement costs, and administrative costs
- The costs associated with an ignition interlock device
- An impact on future opportunities
What Are Your Options When It Comes To Getting Your DUI Charges Dropped
Lack of evidence or the mishandling of evidence is often a primary reason for seeking dismissal of DUI charges. However, there may be other ways to dismiss or reduce the charges against you, including:
- Negotiating a plea agreement
- Proving that law enforcement violated your constitutional rights
- Pretrial diversion
However, to better understand these legal options or what they can mean for you, consider reaching out to an experienced Indiana DUI attorney. These legal professionals can help you learn more about these different approaches and determine your options, given your situation.
Contact Kaushal Law To Learn More About Indiana DUI Laws
If you want further information regarding Indiana’s DUI Laws, contact Kaushal Law today or call us at 765.434.3787. Our legal team is here and ready to do everything possible to defend your rights and reputation.
