Drunk Driving Classifications by State

While “DUI” is the most common classification for drunk driving, not every state uses DUI or driving under the influence when it comes to drunk driving convictions and arrests.

The following states use the term DUI: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Washington DC, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Still, DUI is not the only classification for drunk driving in these states.  For example, in Colorado or New York you may also be arrested and charged with DWAI, which stands for driving while ability impaired. DWAI is a lesser charge than DUI, meaning that your blood alcohol concentration was between .05% and .079% at the time of the arrest. The sanctions against one’s driving privilege are also less for a DWAI charge.

Not as many states recognize the term DWI, which stands for driving while intoxicated. There are also certain states like Minnesota or New Mexico that only use the term DWI for drunk driving convictions. The states that use DWI are: Arkansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina and Texas.

OUI or operating under the influence is a term used in the states of Maine and Rhode Island. OVI or operating a vehicle while impaired is a term used in Ohio. OWI or operating while intoxicated is a term used in Indiana, Iowa and Wisconsin.

There are also certain states that will use the term “OMVI” or operating a motor vehicle intoxicated. “OUID” or operating under the influence of drugs is used in some states. “OUIL” or operating under the influence of liquor is also used in a few states.

So as you can see just because someone is considered DUI in one state, does not necessarily mean that a person arrested for drunk driving in another state is necessarily facing a DUI charge.

Regardless of how your alcohol offense is classified, if you need SR22 or FR44 auto insurance, call Serenity Insurance for a free quote: 1-800-774-0520 or visit www.serenitygroup.com and submit a free quote request today.  Serenity Insurance specializes in providing SR22 insurance for drivers with alcohol offenses and has access to the most affordable rates.  Contact Serenity Insurance today!

 

 

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