Is There A Difference Between A DUI And A DWI?
Posted on: 18 December 2019
A DUI and a DWI are two types of crimes that both relate to driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but are these two charges the same? The answer to this question depends on the state where you live and the laws in your state, and here are several things you should understand about both a DUI and a DWI.
The Definitions of Each
The letters in DUI mean that a person was driving under the influence, while the letters in DWI refer to driving while intoxicated. As you can see, both appear to be the same definition except they are worded a little bit differently.
The Trait Both Have in Common
One thing to know is that both a DUI and a DWI have one thing in common. They are both criminal offenses that pose risks to the safety of the general public. In other words, whether you are charged with a DUI or a DWI, you made the decision to drive when you were under some type of influence that could impair you from driving in a safe manner. Because of this, both charges have similar consequences and punishments no matter where you live.
The Differences
First of all, some states consider these the exact same charge, and some states use either just DUI or DWI but not both. Other states may use both terms even though they view them the same way. There are also states, though, that use both terms and have different meanings for the terms.
In a state that has different meanings for these two similar charges, they will likely view a DWI as a more serious offense than a DUI. In a state like this, a DWI typically means that a person's blood-alcohol content is above the legal limit. That same state might use a DUI charge for a person who has a blood-alcohol content that is less than the legal limit. In this case, a DWI may result in a more severe punishment than a DUI.
The Potential Consequences
Every case is different and every state has different laws, rules, and schedules, but you can expect to lose your driving privileges if convicted of a DUI or DWI. You might also have to pay fees, attend alcohol school, and complete community service hours as a punishment for your charges.
Facing either a DUI or a DWI is a serious offense that you will need to hire a lawyer for. You can find a lawyer to help you with your case by contacting a law firm that offers criminal law services. For more information, get in touch with law firms like the LoTempio P.C. Law Group.
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