Legal Definitions - operating while intoxicated

Operating while intoxicated (OWI) is a criminal offense that refers to operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is also known as driving under the influence (DUI) in some jurisdictions.

OWI is a serious offense that can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The severity of the punishment depends on the circumstances of the offense, such as the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of the driver's actions.

Examples of OWI include:

• A driver who is pulled over for swerving and is found to have a 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 OWI can occur in different situations and can involve both alcohol and drugs. It is important for drivers to understand the risks and consequences of OWI and to never operate a vehicle while under the influence.