DWI (Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired)

Driving while intoxicated, also referred to as DWI or driving while impaired, is the criminal offense of driving a motor vehicle (car, motorcycle, bus, truck, etc.) while one's abilities are impaired by alcohol and/or drugs. Most often, driving while intoxicated charges actually involve two separate offenses: driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher, and driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. This means that a person whose abilities are not impaired but whose BAC is above the legal limit may still be charged with driving while intoxicated, and vice versa.

The terminology which refers to drunk driving offenses will vary from state to state. Most states refer to drunk driving as DUI or DWI, and others as OUI (operating under the influence). BUI (boating under the influence) is another related offense that involves operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. For more information on other similar offenses, click on one of the links below:

Driving Under the Influence
Many states and the majority of people throughout the U.S. refer to drunk driving as DUI or driving under the influence. No matter what it is called, an arrest or charges for drunk driving may have serious consequences for a driver. Click here to read more about driving under the influence...

Vehicular Manslaughter
One of the most serious DWI-related offenses is vehicular manslaughter. This may be charged when a driver is accused of causing a car accident and the death of another person while driving drunk. Click here to read more about vehicular manslaughter...

Traffic Offenses
DWI is considered a type of traffic offense, as it involves driving. Unlike a simple speeding ticket, however, a driver may face jail time and other serious penalties if found guilty. Click here to read more about traffic offenses...

Challenging DWI Charges

Depending upon your particular state, a driving while intoxicated conviction may result in: driver's license suspension, jail time, fines, court fees, vehicle impoundment, alcohol/drug rehabilitation, counseling, DWI school, points on your driving record, and more. To avoid these harsh penalties and the other serious consequences of a conviction, it is important to ensure your legal rights are well-protected. That is where a criminal defense lawyer comes in the picture. A lawyer can help by handling your criminal charges and by protecting your driver's license at your DMV hearing.

To find a criminal defense attorney in your area, click here.