What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI?

In Virginia, the terms DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are used interchangeably. The difference between the two is that DUI is the legal term used to describe a driver operating a motor vehicle while impaired due to alcohol or drugs, while DWI is the term used to describe a driver operating a motor vehicle while physically or mentally impaired due to drugs or alcohol. When it comes to Virginia DUI law, the legal consequence of being convicted of DUI or DWI is the same. In Virginia, there are three levels of impairment for both DUI and DWI, ranging from mild to severe. Each level carries different punishments, including but not limited to license suspension, jail time, and fines. For DUI, the three levels are: impaired driving (1st offense, 0.08-0.14 BAC), aggravated DUI (2nd offense, 0.15-0.20 BAC) and aggravated DUI with super extreme BAC (3rd offense, 0.21-0.30 BAC). For DWI, the three levels are: impaired driving (1st offense, 0.08-0.14 BAC), aggravated DWI (2nd offense, 0.15-0.20 BAC) and malicious DWI (3rd offense, 0.21-0.50 BAC). In summary, the difference between DUI and DWI in Virginia is primarily in the terminology used. However, the three levels of impairment and the respective punishments are the same.

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What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI?

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