If you’ve been stopped in Missouri while operating your vehicle under the influence, you may be facing a “driving while intoxicated” (DWI) charge. A similar term you may have heard is “driving under the influence” (DUI). Since the phrases are so similar, you may wonder whether there is a difference. The information below will clear matters up.
Which Is More Serious?
In many states, the two terms refer to different charges. For example, DWI sometimes refers to operating a vehicle while under the influence of liquor, while DUI refers to driving while under the influence of illicit drugs.
In most cases where the terms are separate, DUI is typically considered the more serious offense. However, in states like New York, DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated,” while “driving under ability impaired” (DWAI) is a less serious offense.
What Is the Difference in Missouri?
Under Missouri law, the preferred term is DWI. If DUI is used at all, it refers to the same charge, usually related to drug impairment rather than alcohol.
This charge happens when someone over the age of 21 is found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% and above. People under the legal drinking age can be charged with DWIs if they drive with BAC levels of 0.04% or higher.
TIME IS CRITICAL AFTER YOU RECEIVE A CHARGE OF DWI OR DUI!!
For first offenses, defendants may face 90-day license suspensions. For multiple former convictions, drivers may receive license denials and fines.
After receiving a DWI or DUI charge in Missouri, you may only have 15 days to avoid suspension of your driver’s license. Don’t wait to contact counsel. These are complicated cases that involve fighting both the municipality you were driving in, as well as the Department of Revenue that controls your right to drive. Don’t miss a deadline and get suspended because you waited to hire an attorney!
If you’ve been charged with a DWI in Missouri, Traffic Law Firm in St. Peters, MO, will assist. Attorney Shannon Norman, who serves as a municipal judge in several cities in St. Charles County, understands Missouri’s traffic laws and has helped many clients with DWIs and DUIs in and around the St. Louis metropolitan area. If you find yourself accused of DWI or DUI, give us a call ASAP! Time is of the essence in these matters and you may only have 15 days to avoid a license suspension!