A traffic accident caused by alcohol will kill more than one person per hour. While there has been a decrease in the number of DUIs each year, they are still one of the top violent criminal arrests.
Most people do not know that a DUI and DWI are different animals and can have various consequences. They also mean different things depending on what state the charges originated. However, they and other similar terms can severely damage a driving record.
DUI vs. DWI
DUI means driving under the influence, and DWI stands for driving while intoxicated. DUI charges can encompass drivers that consume drugs. That does not just mean illegal drugs. It can also mean prescription and over-the-counter medicines that impair an individual.
OUI and OWI
Some states use the terms OUI and OWI. OUI stands for operating under the influence, while OWI stands for operating while intoxicated. However, only a few states use this terminology.
OWVI or DUAC
Even fewer states use the terms OWVI and DUAC. OWVI stands for operating while visibly impaired, while DUAC means driving with an unlawful alcohol concentration.
Pennsylvania DUI penalties
Pennsylvania uses the term DUI. For your first DUI charge in this state, you could receive up to a $5,000 fine, six months of jail time and a license suspension of one year. For subsequent DUI charges in Pennsylvania, you could receive up to a $10,000 fine, five years of jail time and a license suspension of 18 months.
The best way to avoid the severe consequences implemented with DUI charges is to stay educated and avoid driving after drinking. If an individual faces these charges, they should know what to expect now that their record has a blemish.