2025 Session Last amended: 2023 session

§ 609.2111 — Definitions

Plain-Language Summary

Provides definitions used throughout the criminal vehicular operation statutes (sections 609.2111 to 609.2114). Defines key terms including motor vehicle, controlled substance, intoxicating substance, and qualified prior driving offense. Understanding these definitions is essential when reading the criminal vehicular homicide and criminal vehicular operation statutes.

Practical Notes
This definitions section is important for understanding the criminal vehicular statutes. A ‘qualified prior driving offense’ – which triggers enhanced penalties – includes prior DWI convictions, prior criminal vehicular convictions involving impairment, and license revocations for DWI-related test refusals. The definition of ‘motor vehicle’ is broad and includes attached trailers. Note that ‘controlled substance’ and ‘intoxicating substance’ are defined by cross-reference to other statutes.