DWI Law: An Inside Look
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated or driving while impaired.
What is known as DWI in the DWI laws of some states may be referred to as DUI (driving under the influence) or OWI (operating while intoxicated) under the statutes of other states.
While states may differ in terms of how their laws refer to and mandate penalties for drunk driving, it should be known that it is against the law in all 50 states to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher.
Whether you live in a state with a DUI, OWI or DWI law, you should know that the penalties for operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs are quite serious and nothing to laugh about, as the "DWI Law Crime and Punishment" section on this page reveals.
States with DWI Laws
Did you know that the following states have referred to drunk driving as DWI:
If you live in any of these states have been charged with DWI, you should get in touch with a local DWI lawyer as soon as possible.
DWI Law: Crime and Punishment
When assessing whether to pull someone over under suspicion of a DWI, police look for a number of indicators: weaving, driving on the wrong side of the street, stopping too short and accelerating or decelerating randomly. Basically, police look for any actions out of the ordinary.
As states develop new DWI laws, the penalties for driving under the influence increase, especially for those with a high BAC, with passengers in the car and multiple DWI convictions. If caught driving under the influence, you could face losing your driver's license, community service, fines, jail time and seizure of your vehicle.
DWI Law: Find the Help You Need
If you are facing a DWI charge and want more answers to your questions, let us help you get connected with a DWI lawyer. Simply fill out our free online DWI case evaluation or call 877-349-1311and we can find a lawyer in your area.
