Legal Definitions - operating under the influence

Operating under the influence (OUI) is a criminal offense that refers to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. This is also known as driving under the influence (DUI) in some jurisdictions. It is a serious offense that can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Examples of OUI include:

• A driver who is pulled over for swerving on the road and is found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit.
• A driver who causes an accident while under the influence of drugs.
• A driver who is stopped at a sobriety checkpoint and fails a field sobriety test.

These examples illustrate how operating a vehicle while impaired can lead to dangerous situations on the road and put other drivers at risk. It is important to never drive under the influence and to always have a designated driver or alternative transportation if you plan on drinking or using drugs.