DUI vs. DWI: What’s the Difference? DWI stands for Driving While Impaired, and DUI means Driving Under the Influence. Although you might have heard both terms used, the state of North Carolina does not make a distinction between them. … Being charged with a DWI usually denotes a higher crime on the scale than if you were charged with a DUI.
DUI vs. DWI
It may be a little confusing when a state uses both terms. Often, one will refer to the use of alcohol and the other to impairment by drugs, but this can also vary from state to state, depending on the state’s laws. Also, in some states, DWI refers to driving while under the influence of alcohol with a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) over the legal limit. Meanwhile, the term DUI may be used to charge a driver with being under the influence of either alcohol or drugs.
OUI vs. OWI
In some states, an intoxicated driver can also be charged with an OWI (operating while intoxicated) or an OUI (operating a vehicle under the influence). Regardless, being charged with any of these offenses can have severe consequences.
At the time of this writing, these acronyms are only used in Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The “operating” distinction comprises more than just driving a vehicle. Even if the vehicle is stopped and the motor is not running, a person can be arrested and charged with operating under the influence.
When Charges Can Occur
A police officer should only pull a person over when he/she has probable cause to suspect that the driver may be under the influence of a substance. Examples include violating a traffic rule, swerving, or driving dangerously. Once a person has been pulled over, the officer will try to determine if he or she is intoxicated and to what extent.
The driver will likely be asked to perform a field sobriety test. These are often relatively simple tasks, like standing on one leg while counting, or walking in a straight line and then turning around. An officer might also ask a driver to follow a light with their eyes.
Whether or not a person passes the field sobriety test, he or she will probably be asked to use a breathalyzer. A breathalyzer is a tool that is used to determine a person’s approximate BAC. Refusing to take this test can result in additional penalties, including fines and license suspension.
Importantly, a person can still be charged and convicted of driving while impaired without taking a breathalyzer test. If he or she fails the field sobriety test or has an accident, these are examples of situations that could still land a person in jail. Moreover, refusing to use a breathalyzer might not be a good idea, since, in many cases, it would only result in more problems.
If the field tests or breathalyzer indicate that a driver is intoxicated (the legal limit is usually a BAC of 0.08%), the vehicle will likely be searched for open alcohol or drugs. The person will then be arrested and charged, and the vehicle will be towed to an impound location.
After Arrest
After law enforcement arrest a driver at the scene, he or she will probably be booked at a local station. This process typically involves being photographed and fingerprinted, followed by short-term incarceration in a jail cell.
A person might also be asked to undergo a blood or urine test. Like breathalyzers, in some states, there are penalties for refusing to take these other tests. The police will also ask questions, but, as with any arrest, you have the right not to answer and to speak to a lawyer.
After being booked, many people can be released on bail if they can post it. At this point, it’s best to retain an attorney if one has not been already. Next is the process of arraignment, where the person pleads either guilty or not guilty. Sometimes it can take weeks or months to get to this part, depending on whether a plea deal has been agreed upon and some other factors.
In any case, a guilty plea is swiftly followed by sentencing from a judge. If this is a plea deal, most of the time, a defendant will have a good idea of what the outcome will be. If the plea is not guilty, the case will go to trial in front of a judge or jury to determine the verdict.
Sentences vary widely depending on the severity of the circumstances and a person’s criminal record. For example, a second DUI would warrant a stiffer sentence than the first. Conditions of sentencing may include jail time, probation, and community service. The person may also be required to undergo therapy or counseling, random or routine breathalyzer tests, and substance abuse education.
Treatment for Alcoholism
If you have been charged with a drunk driving offense, you may be required by law to seek treatment for substance abuse. Even if you are not required, there is a reasonable chance that drinking has become problematic and you could benefit from professional help.
Harmony Recovery Center offers comprehensive programs for the treatment of addictive substances in both partial hospitalization and outpatient formats. Using evidence-based services, such as psychotherapy, we provide clients with the tools and support they need to succeed at recovery.
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