Have you ever gotten a DUI or a DWI and wondered what the difference is between the two? There are a lot of people that have mistakenly assumed that they were the same thing, but they aren’t.
In this article, we are going to let you know what makes DWI vs. DUI different. Continue reading because you’re going to want to know the difference in case you’re ever charged with one or the other.
DWI vs. DUI
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated and also driving while impaired. A DUI is driving under the influence. Both of these charges may have significant consequences for the person charged with them. But what makes them different?
A DUI is when someone has alcohol in their system and has chosen to operate some form of machinery, whether that’s a car or another machine that has an engine. Typically, when charged with a DUI, the person has been pulled over, and the officer has performed a field sobriety test.
A DWI in some places is the same as driving with alcohol in your system. It encompasses driving and operating machinery when there are drugs in your system. This includes medications that have been prescribed to you and especially drugs that haven’t been prescribed to you.
Consequences For DWI In Texas
Being charged with a DUI or a DWI in Texas is taken very seriously; however, if you’re under the age of 21, you could be charged with a lesser offense. A minor can be charged. However, it’s really up to the discretion of the officer.
People that are over the age of 21 can also be charged and face serious consequences. Consequences may include fines up to a maximum of $10,000, depending on the amount of alcohol that is in the person’s system.
Along with the charge, which can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, you may be liable for a jail sentence of 6 months to 2 years. In addition, you will also have your license suspended for a maximum of 2 years.
Beyond the Charges
There are more severe consequences than just facing felony or misdemeanor charges. When you drive while under the influence of either drugs or alcohol, there is a chance that you can not only injure yourself but also injure someone else.
If you injure someone else or even kill them, then you could face vehicular manslaughter charges.
Besides these consequences, having a DUI or a DWI on your record can impact your chances of securing employment and being able to rent a home.
The Wrap-Up
To be honest, when it comes to the DWI vs. DUI, there’s not much that sets them apart, depending on the state you receive the charge in. If you’re impaired, it’s not recommended that you get behind the wheel of a car or any other machinery that can cause harm to yourself or others.
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