What Does PAC Stand For In Drunk Driving?

What Does PAC Stand For in Drunk Driving? 

If you are charged with OWI, you may have wondered what PAC stands for. It’s the amount of alcohol in your blood. The PAC is a charge tacked on to your OWI charge and carries the same penalties. The only difference is the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream. 

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PAC is based on the level of alcohol in your bloodstream 

PAC is a percentage-based measurement of the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream. It is measured by a breathalyzer or chemical testing, and it is a basis for determining whether or not you are legally intoxicated. A BAC above 0.08 g/100mL constitutes an OWI. 

In Wisconsin, a person whose BAC exceeds the legal limit for drunk driving is charged with an OWI. In addition to being charged with a DUI, a person can also be charged with a PAC if the alcohol level in their bloodstream is 0.08% or higher. Both of these charges can result in a prison sentence ranging from six months to ten years. Those convicted of OWI can also face fines of up to $25,000, and in some cases, a driver’s license can be suspended for life. 

It is tacked on to an OWI charge 

A PAC charge is an additional charge tacked on to an OWI charge in Wisconsin. This can result in more fines and jail time, as well as a revoked or suspended license. It is important to have an attorney who is familiar with PAC charges to help you fight them. Kerri Cleghorn has extensive experience defending those facing these charges. 

The first offenses of this charge will result in the same penalties as an OWI charge. Penalties include a revoked license, a mandatory alcohol assessment, and an ignition interlock device. Second and subsequent convictions will result in even more severe penalties, including jail time and a high fine. 

It is not related to your level of impairment 

A PAC charge is based on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of.08 or higher, which is above the legal limit. A PAC charge has the same penalties as an OWI charge, such as a revoked license, costly fines, and an alcohol assessment. The penalties increase with subsequent convictions, and you may have to install an ignition interlock device. 

PAC stands for “prohibited alcohol concentration,” and is separate from the “Operating While Intoxicated” charge. Both charges can be given for the same incident, though OWI is often paired with PAC. A convicted PAC offender may still be facing two charges for one incident. In Wisconsin, an OWI conviction means you were too intoxicated to drive safely, regardless of your BAC.