What are the differences between DUI and DWI?
In many states, the legal terms “DUI” and “DWI” refer to the same offense. However, in some states, a DWI is considered a more serious charge than a DUI. A skilled defense attorney can help you fight these charges, and he or she may be able to have them reduced or dismissed.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Drunk Driving Are Criminal Offenses
A DUI or a DWI is an illegal traffic offense that carries penalties ranging from fines to jail time and the loss of your driver’s license. In addition to this, you could face significant insurance rate increases if you have been convicted of a DUI or DWI.
DUI and DWI laws vary from state to state, but a DUI usually means driving under the influence of alcohol. In some states, it can also mean driving under the influence of drugs or prescription medications.
Whether you’re driving a car, boat or any other motorized vehicle, you can be charged with DUI. In some cases, you can even be charged with a DUI if you’re not driving a vehicle at all.
The difference between a DUI and DWI can be difficult to understand, especially for those who have never been charged with this type of crime before. Fortunately, there is a comprehensive resource available to explain these terms and how they differ from one another.
Some states have zero tolerance policies, which don’t make a distinction between a DUI and a DWI. These states, such as California and Texas, make it illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more, regardless of what you’ve had to drink.
This makes it very easy for officers to pull you over if they see that your blood alcohol concentration is higher than 0.08%. Most police officers will administer a breath test to measure your BAC.
A person’s BAC is also measured through a urine or blood test, which can be more accurate. These tests are used by prosecutors to determine the level of intoxication when determining the charge of a DUI or DWI.
If you have a BAC of more than 0.08%, you can be charged with a DUI, which is usually more serious than a DWI. In these cases, you can be sentenced to up to a year in jail and fined thousands of dollars.
In some cases, a DUI can lead to other charges, such as reckless driving or assault and battery with a deadly weapon. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, it is important to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
The repercussions of a DUI or DWI are very severe and can affect your life for years to come. You could lose your driver’s license, be placed on probation, pay hefty fees and receive community service and drug treatment. You may have to use an ignition interlock device to get your driver’s license back, and your insurance rates will likely increase.
