DWI and DUI refer to driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence. DWI typically refers to intoxication due to alcohol, whereas DUI can refer to a variety of different drugs including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and other judgment impairing substances. Here we will go over the common terms and definitions relating to DWI and DUI.

Breathalyzer is a term that you will frequently hear when you are discussing a DUI or a DWI case. This is a test that is usually administered when the driver is pulled over. The driver has to blow into a device and it will tell the officer how intoxicated the driver is. If someone’s blood alcohol content level is higher than 0.08, then he or she are not considered fit to drive.

DUISchool is a course that most people who are convicted of driving under the influence will be required to take. The judge or jury responsible for deciding the case will make this recommendation if it suits the case. This is a course that is designed for people who have been convicted of driving while they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is designed to show them the effects of drugs and alcohol in regard to driving.

An administrative license suspension is another common term relating to DUI and DWI and refers to when someone gets his or her license taken away because they were driving under the influence. If they blow a level over the legal limit after being pulled over, then their license can be suspended even before they are formally charged with the offense. This can also happen if the person refuses to take a blood, urine or breath test after being pulled over. You are obligated by law to submit to a test after being pulled over on suspicion of driving while under the influence. If you refuse to do so, you can have your license taken away immediately.

The ignition interlock device is a relatively new advancement but has been proving to be quite successful at keeping repeat offenders off the roads. If someone has been convicted of a drunk driving offense, usually more than once, the judge might order that they have an ignition interlock device installed in their car. This simply means that there will be a machine that they will have to blow into in order to get the car to start. If the machine detects alcohol, they will not be able to start the car.

Drunk driving kills thousands of people every year, yet people continue to commit this crime. Thankfully, there are a lot of new precautions being put in place that will limit drunk driving in the future. If you have been hit by a drunk driver, then you need to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. There are law firms who specialize solely in cases that involve drunk drivers and they will be able to get you the settlement that you deserve. You should not be held responsible for paying the medical bills or the repair bills for an accident that was not your fault. Contact an attorney today and get that money back in your pocket.