Most people have heard of DWI and DUI bonds. The majority of people know that DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence, but wrongly assume that DWI stands for Driving Whilst Intoxicated. In reality, in most states DWI stands for Driving Whilst Impaired. How these two charges are applied is basically the same across the US, but there are a few subtle differences between states.
In Texas, a DUI charge indicates that a person under the age of 21 was driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The level of the substances found in their system is not important. Because the ingestion of these substances is illegal for anyone under 21 how much they have consumed or how impaired they are not really a factor.
Someone over 21 driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be charged with DWI. The type of drugs covered by this charge includes prescription drugs, illegal narcotics or any other controlled substance that can impair the ability for someone to drive. Because consuming alcohol is legal for adults, how much is in their bloodstream is relevant to whether they are charged or not. With drugs, it is the affect it has on a person’s ability to drive that leads to the charge.
Those found guilty of either charge face stiff fines and may need to make bail. In some cases, their vehicle will be impounded. Being caught in Texas either DWI or DUI has very serious consequences and you will usually need the services of an attorney.