Minnesota DUI Laws

2007-03-08 10:33:40

( Legal )



Definition of DUI

To drive under influence of alcohol or drugs, or DUI, is a serious offense in practically all states. To be charged with this offense means possible jail terms, suspension of your driver's license, hefty fines and criminal prosecution if death or injury results.

Each state has its own standards as to what it considers a DUI offense, but all states use BAC or blood alcohol content as basis. The BAC is derived from blood or urine tests that you are required to take if an officer arrests you on DUI charges.

DUI Laws in Minnesota

In Minnesota, this offense is more commonly referred to as driving while impaired or DWI. Compared to San Diego DUI laws, Minnesota DUI laws use higher BAC levels of .10.

Under Minnesota DUI laws, there are four degrees of DUI offense. The degree of offense depends on some aggravating factors such as any previous DUI/DWI record within the last ten years, BAC level, and whether your passenger was a minor.

Based on these factors, a fourth degree offense means this is your first DUI arrest and your BAC level was below .20. A third degree offense means there's at least one aggravating factor or you refused to take the BAC test. Second degree means there are two aggravating factors, and first degree means all three.

Minnesota DUI laws penalize DUI offenses with monetary fines, jail terms, and license suspension. Third degree offenses or higher could also result in impounding and forfeiture of your vehicle. You may also have to attend a special seminar for DUI offenders or even rehabilitative treatment. Minors are subject to the same penalties as adult offenders.

Along with these penalties, you could also risk facing skyrocketed car insurance premiums once your insurer finds out about your DUI case. Some insurers even cancel your insurance policy or drop your name as a qualified driver for policies with more than one registered driver.


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