What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI?

A DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, and a DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated, are both criminal offenses in Maine. The difference between the two is the amount of alcohol in the person’s system when they are stopped by law enforcement. A DUI is the lesser of the two offenses. It is given to anyone with a blood alcohol level of .08 or greater. A DUI does not necessarily mean that the person was impaired by alcohol, simply that the level was above the legal limit. A DWI is a more serious charge and requires a higher blood alcohol level of .15 or greater, as well as evidence of impaired driving. Even if the blood alcohol level is not above the legal limit, a person may still be charged with a DWI if law enforcement believes the person was driving while their ability was impaired by alcohol or drugs. Both DUI and DWI are serious offenses punishable by jail time, fines, and a suspended license. DUI offenders may be required to take a substance abuse class and community service while DWI offenders may face harsher punishments. It is important to understand the differences between DUI and DWI as it is illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

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What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI?

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