Driving Intoxicated vs. Driving Impaired
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a term used to describe impaired or drunken driving. In Michigan, DUIs are known as OWIs or Operating While Intoxicated. Drivers face serious consequences if convicted of a DUI /OWI. Understanding the Difference Between Intoxicated and Impaired Driving Penalties for OWIs are determined based on blood alcohol content (BAC), which is typically measured by breath test. Although drivers might be tempted to avoid the breath test, doing so in Michigan results in an automatic one-year suspension of your driver’s license. First time offenders with a BAC of .08% or above are often charged with OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired). Drivers with a BAC of .17% or higher can be charged with an OWI. The penalties for OWIs are generally greater than those for OWVIs. Penalties for OWI and OWVI can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. Michigan drivers face larger penalties if a minor was present or bodily injury occurred as a result of impaired...