State DUI or DWI?

In every state, it is illegal for a person to drive if they have a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher. This means anyone operating any motor vehicle with a BAC at or above .08 can be charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, or DUI. Some states label this a DWI, driving while intoxicated or driving while impaired, when referring to alcohol or drugs.

DUI vs. DWI - Is There a Legal Difference?

DUI, DWI and others are different terms states used by states to classify the same offense: When a person is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Although all 50 states have one common law for drunk driving, each also has its own individual state drunk driving laws.

State DUI and DWI Use

So which states refer to drunk driving as DUI? Which states refer to it as DWI? Do any states refer to drunk driving as something else entirely?

Here is a DUI vs. DWI primer on which states use which terms for drunk driving.

DUI is primarily used in reference to drunk driving charges in:

DWI is primarily used in reference to drunk driving charges in:

A variety of acronyms have been used in reference to drunk driving charges in:

Get Answers to All Your DUI and DWI Questions

Although the laws and words differ, the consequences are equally serious. You should talk with a DUI lawyer in your area if you have questions about DUI vs. DWI or anything else affecting your case. Let us help you get a jump start by filling out our free DUI case evaluation form. Or, to connect with a DUI lawyer near you, call 877-349-1311.



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