If you’re like a lot of people, you likely use the terms DWI and DUI interchangeably, and that’s completely understandable. In fact, we do the same thing, and we’re a law firm that fully understands that these are two separate terms with different definitions in Minnesota. So while it’s fine to use the term synonymously, we wanted to use today’s blog to explain the actual difference between DWI and DUI as viewed by the law here in Minnesota.
DUI Vs. DWI
Let’s start by breaking down each term. DWI stands for Driving While Impaired, whereas DUI is short for Driving Under the Influence. The state of Minnesota only recognizes DWI, or Driving While Impaired. If police suspect that you are driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs or a similar substance, you will be charged with a DWI.
Minnesota does not legally recognize a DUI charge, so you’ll never be charged with Driving Under the Influence. However, DUI tends to roll off the tongue a little easier than DWI, which is a part of the reason many people say DUI when they actually mean DWI. States also have different standards, so it’s certainly possible to face a DUI charge if you run into trouble in another state. Just know that if you are ever charged with a drunk or drugged driving offense in Minnesota, your official charge will read DWI – Driving While Impaired.
A DWI charge can also vary quite substantially in and of itself based on the facts of your case. For a run of the mill first offense DWI in Minnesota, you’ll likely be hit with a misdemeanor charge, which carries the possibility of up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. For more serious DWI cases, like the ones where aggravating factors are involved, you may find that your DWI charge is elevated to a gross misdemeanor (punishable by up to a year in jail and fines up to $3,000) or even a felony, which can carry much more severe penalties. Of course, fines and jail time aren’t the only penalties you’ll face, as there will be license restrictions for even first time offenders, and you may also find that you have to attend alcohol awareness courses or a victim impact panel.
So although we use DUI when we actually mean DWI, know that DUI is not a recognized term here in Minnesota, and that drunk or drugged driving charges will be met with a charge of Driving While Impaired. Now you know the distinction, but if you ever find yourself in need of a firm who can help you overcome a DWI or similar traffic charge, we hope you’ll reach out to Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm. For more information, or for answers to legal questions you have, reach out to our team today at (952) 224-2277.
