If you were pulled over while operating your vehicle under the influence of alcohol, you might be facing a “driving while intoxicated” (DWI) charge. This sounds similar to “driving under the influence” (DUI), and the two terms have different meanings in some states. Below is a brief guide to what these terms mean in Missouri. 

How Is a DUI Different From a DWI?

In Missouri, DWI and DUI can be used interchangeably because they refer to the same offense. The preferred term, however, is DWI, which is what is used in the state’s criminal law statutes. 

A DWI charge is given to an individual over the age of 21 who is found to be operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or above. Underage drivers only need to have a minimum BAC of 0.02% to be charged with a DWI.

Missouri law does have a separate charge for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID). Unlike a DWI, a DUID does not have a specific level of impairment that needs to be meet in order to be considered too impaired to drive. You could be charged with a DUID if a police officer suspects you to be impaired by illegal drugs, narcotic prescriptions, and even over-the-counter medications. The penalties for a first-time DUID in Missouri are similar to those given for a DWI.

What Charges Will I Face for a DWI?

A first-time DWI offense is a class B misdemeanor in Missouri. Drivers receive a 90-day driver's license suspension, which goes into effect 15 days after the arrest. They may also face up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000.

Subsequent offenses may result in longer jail times, heftier fines, and mandatory installation of a vehicle interlock device. Multiple offenders risk having their license suspended for up to 10 years or longer if they cause an accident while driving intoxicated. 

If you’re facing a DWI in Missouri, the lawyers at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. can help. With more than a century of combined experience, they provide quality legal representation for DWI and other traffic offenses, and will guide you through every step of your legal proceedings, ensuring the best result for your case. Visit their website to learn more, or call (636) 561-5599 to schedule a consultation in Lake St. Louis. To speak with an attorney in Warrenton, call (636) 456-7969.