Missouri Drunk Driving Laws

In hopes of continuing a downward trend of arrests for driving while intoxicated (DWI), the state of Missouri has added installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) as a possible punishment for first-time offenders. Arrests dropped 18.6 percent from 2006 to 2007, then 7.5 percent from 2007 to 2008, the last year for which final figures are available.

Figures for DWI arrests by Missouri law enforcement agencies are reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for inclusion in its annual report Crime in the United States. According to that report, there were 38,859 arrests in 2006, 31,633 in 2007, and 29,265 in 2008.

IID Use Started in 2001, Expanded in 2009

IIDs were authorized as a penalty for second and subsequent DWI offenses in 2001. A law passed in 2008 and effective as of July 2009 not only allows IIDs for first-time DWI offenders, but also gives courts the ability to require their use for more than the original six-month maximum.

The IID, which is about the size of a cell phone, is wired into a car's ignition system. In order to start the car, a driver must breathe into a tube on the device and register a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below a level preprogrammed into the device. Periodic retests are required while driving. Failure of a retest is recorded by the device for reporting to authorities.

Offenders Required to Pay IID Costs

Offenders are required to pay for installation and rental of the IID, as well as for periodic inspection and monitoring.

Other penalties for a first offense include a fine of up to $500, six months in jail, 30 days' full suspension of driving privileges, followed by 60 days of limited privileges, a $45 license reinstatement fee, and filing proof of insurance with the state for two years.

If you've been arrested for DWI in Missouri, contact an experienced DWI attorney, dedicated to protecting your rights as a defendant. If you're convicted, your attorney will fight to see that your punishment is just and to limit your financial loss.