It goes without saying that drinking and driving is a bad idea and you should never do it, as it not only endangers your life, but also the lives of those around you. Speaking of drinking while driving, do you know the difference between driving under the influence and driving while intoxicated?
Whether on the news or in a TV show, you may have heard both of these terms or at least the term DUI. So, what is the difference between the two, or are they the same? This is what we will find out today, and also what to do in case you get a DUI.
What is DUI?
Driving under the Influence, or DUI, simply means that you are operating a vehicle while your senses are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or some other substance, and that you are not fully in control of your mental faculties. This means you cannot have a blood alcohol level higher than a certain level while driving, and DUI is not just limited to alcohol but also includes marijuana, narcotics of any kind, and even prescription pain killers.
Driving under the influence is not only dangerous but illegal, and law enforcement can use breathalyzers and blood tests to check your sobriety, and failing the test can lead to criminal charges being filed against you.
What is DWI?
Similar to DUI, DWI, or driving while intoxicated, means that you are driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and that in this state, your senses and mental faculties are impaired. The level of blood alcohol that can legally be in your system varies from country to country and state to state, but most states put a legal limit of 0.08%, and anything above it can lead to jail and fines and this is if you are lucky and do not get into an accident or God forbid anything more serious
Harms of Drinking and Driving or Doing Drugs and Driving
Now that we have established the difference between driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence, let us look at some of its harmful effects.
- Reduced Reaction Time: Alcohol and drugs can significantly slow down the processing speed of our brains, making it difficult for us to react to quickly changing situations.
- Poor Judgment: Who among us hasn’t had bouts of drunkenness that we have regretted later on, now add to it you being on the road driving your and imagine what can go wrong.
- Decreased Coordination: Hand-eye coordination is essential for driving safely, and increased alcohol or drugs in the system and significantly reduce it.
- Drowsiness: One of the most dangerous and worst things you can do is fall asleep at the wheel, and both alcohol and drugs increase the chances of that happening manyfold.
- Increased Risk of Fatalities: Driving under the influence increases your chances of getting into an accident, and it can turn fatal for you, your loved ones, or innocent bystanders.
Punishments for DUI/DWI
Depending on where you live, the punishments for DUI or DWI can vary, but in most places, it is considered a criminal offence, and depending on the level of damage done and your history with the law, it can range from mere fines to lengthy prison sentences. Some common punishments are as follows.
- Fines: Fines for driving under the influence can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the circumstances.
- License Suspension: A DUI or DWI can cost you your driving privileges, as your driving license can be suspended temporarily or even permanently if deemed necessary by the courts.
- Jail Time: A DUI in itself may not have a severe punishment, but a DUI leading to injury or death can lead to a long stint in prison.
- Probation: Multiple offenses, especially involving DUIs, can also lead to probation, which may require regular check-ins with law enforcement.
- Mandatory Education or Rehabilitation Programs: Those involved in DUIs are often required to participate in alcohol or drug prevention classes and treatment programs.
What to Do if You Are Charged with DUI or DWI
It goes without saying that never drink and drive or do drugs and drive, but in case you do get into a DUI or DWI, here is what you need to do.
- Stay Calm and Cooperative: Even though you are not completely in your senses, try to remain calm and polite and cooperate with the law enforcement officer as much as possible.
- Exercise Your Rights: Even though you are in a DUI, you still have rights, which include remaining silent and getting legal representation, so exercise those rights and only answer questions in the presence of your lawyer.
- Follow Court Orders: Follow all the court orders, show up to court dates that you are required to, pay the fines, and follow the judge's orders.
- Reflect and Learn: Lastly, get help if you need it and reflect on your mistakes, and be thankful that you did not cause major harm to anyone.
