DWI: Driving while intoxicated

Operating  or driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs that impair your driving skills and perception is a crime in the United States which is known as driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.

The imposition and gravity of the penalty for the crime of DWI vary from state to state. Some states imposed graver penalties of imprisonment due to the increasing number of deaths associated with drunk driving or driving while intoxicated with drugs or alcohol or a combination of both.

When you are being arrested or your loved one because of the commission of DWI, you are advised to consult a lawyer to guide you all throughout the process especially when you were involved in a mishap resulting in serious bodily harm or death. You may think that you have only consumed a glass of wine or brandy and you are still possessing the necessary skills and perception in driving a motor vehicle. However, when investigated, that glass of wine or brandy actually impaired your driving skill and perception because it is your first time to drink.

When you are convicted of the crime of driving while intoxicated, you will lose your license for driving, because you will be meted out a penalty of license suspension. Most states in the US permits the first time offender of the crime of driving while intoxicated to hold a restricted license to drive while under suspension, to drive to work and school. Some states like New Jersey, Alabama and Kansas do not allow this kind of permit.

Consult a lawyer and inquire about your case. Know the law of your state regarding driving while intoxicated especially when you are involved in a road accident.