DWI and DUI can be very difficult to distinguish from each other as some people use them interchangeably and claim that there is no difference between the two. In fact, the federal laws od does not distinguish between the two offenses and there is no legitimate and once the definition of each of the two violations. These two violations are often referred to be similar although many states provide different definitions and offenses of each of the two differently.
There are also firms such as the DUI lawyers West Palm Beach offer specialized services that focus only on DUI, for instance.
Last year, either DUI or DWI, you could be punished for up to $3,297 dollars as a penalty.
What is the Difference Between DUI and DWI?
On the one hand, DUI basically mean Driving Under the Influence and happens when an individual drives with alcohol in their bloodstream and body. Some states pursue DUI charges at Blood-Alcohol Content (BAC) level of 0.0.1% although the federal legal BAC limit is 0.08%. in some cases, the DUI can be charged without an officer checking for the BAC, and can be charged based on erratic driving behavior and suspicion of alcohol influence.
On the other hand, DWI stands for Driving While Impaired, or in some states, Driving While Intoxicated. In these circumstances, DWI is almost similar to DUI. However, in some states, DWI could mean driving while being impaired by drugs either the offender uses it for recreation or it was prescribed.
Which is a Worse Case?
As mentioned, they could be treated the same way in some states, although in others, DUI is considered to be in a lesser degree, and DWI is the more serious charge. There are states that allow a person to have a DUI case from having a DWI if it is his/her first-time offense in driving while intoxicated with alcohol or drug is given that their BAC is below 0.08%.
What does a DUI or a DWI could do to you?
They do not just raise insurance rates but they also do the following as the consequences of either of the two offenses:
- Monetary fine
- Mandated community service
- Temporary suspension of driving license
- Loss of driving license
- Increased car insurance costs
- Loss of coverage of car insurance costs.
After being charged with DUI or DWI, the driver could be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle’s steering wheel. This device ensures that the driver has 0.0% BAC for the car to start.
After a DUI offense, the driver may need to apply for a new car insurance policy and is required to submit ab SR-22 through his local DMV, which will serve as a proof of insurance coverage filed by an insurer on behalf of this certain driver. Otherwise, if the company does not submit this document, the driver will be the one responsible to furnish it.
Final thoughts
Both DUI and DWI need to be taken seriously as they are a serious offense to the law. When faced with charges such as these, it is recommended that you seek professional help like a DUI or DWI attorney to help you alleviate the charges, if proven guilty.
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