Difference between DUI and DWI: The BAC, penalties, and physical control can vary from one state to the next.
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What you Need to Know About the Difference Between DUI & DWI
Drunk driving is considered a serious crime in the United States. It can result in severe consequences. It is important to know the difference between DUI (drunk driving) and DWI in order to understand the various penalties.
What is DUI?
DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence” and is a criminal offense that involves operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DUI is a criminal offense and carries serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and the suspension of a driver’s license.
What is DWI?
DWI stands for “Driving While Intoxicated” and is a criminal offense that involves operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DWI is more serious than DUI and comes with more severe penalties.
What are the main differences between DUI/DWI?
The main difference between DUI or DWI is the degree of intoxication. DUI is based on the driver’s impairment due to alcohol or drugs, while DWI is based on the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC). A person is considered to have been driving while impaired in most states if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is less than 0.08%.
DWI and DUI laws are also different from one state to another. A DUI in some states can lead to a misdemeanor, or even a felony. In other states, however, a DWI can always be a felony. There are different penalties for DUI and DWI.
FAQ
What is the legal limit of blood alcohol content (BAC).
All states have a legal limit of 0.08% for BAC.
What are the penalties of DUI and DWI?
Different states have different DUI and DWI penalties. Generally, penalties for DUI may include fines, jail time, and the suspension of a driver’s license. Penalties for DWI may include fines, jail time, and the suspension of a driver’s license. DWI can be considered a felony in some states.
What if I’m not driving?
Yes. Yes. This is known as “physical control” and occurs when a person is in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.