Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers | October 29, 2025 | Car Accidents
When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the consequences can be devastating. You may hear terms like DUI, DWI, or DWAI used to describe impaired driving—but while these acronyms sound similar, they can represent different levels of impairment and legal consequences depending on the state.
Each type of charge can play a key role in holding the at-fault driver accountable and securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical costs, and emotional suffering.
What Is a DUI?
DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence.” This charge typically applies when a driver is operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
In many states, a driver can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, a DUI can also be charged even when BAC is below that limit if law enforcement believes the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle was noticeably impaired.
DUI laws often cover:
- Alcohol impairment (even if under the legal limit)
- Illegal drugs
- Prescription medications that cause drowsiness or slow reaction time
- A combination of substances
Penalties for DUI can include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, ignition interlock devices, and even jail time for repeat offenders.
What Is a DWI?
DWI usually stands for “Driving While Intoxicated” or “Driving While Impaired.” The exact meaning depends on the state. In some jurisdictions, DWI is used interchangeably with DUI. In others, it represents a more serious offense.
DWI offenses typically suggest a higher level of intoxication than a DUI or DWAI.
As a result, penalties are often more severe, especially for aggravated DWI charges involving:
- Extremely high BAC levels (e.g., 0.15% or above)
- Accidents resulting in injury or death
- Repeat offenses
Penalties may include hefty fines, long-term license revocation, mandatory treatment programs, and possible felony charges for repeat offenders.
What Is a DWAI?
DWAI stands for “Driving While Ability Impaired.” This charge is recognized in only a few states, and typically refers to a lower level of impairment than a DUI or DWI.
Although DWAI is often considered a less serious offense, it’s still a criminal charge that can carry serious consequences, such as:
- Fines
- Points on your driving record
- License suspension
- Increased insurance premiums
A DWAI conviction can also appear on your criminal record and affect employment, especially for jobs that involve driving.
Why These Differences Matter
The distinction between DUI, DWI, and DWAI isn’t just a matter of legal terminology—it can play a major role in a personal injury claim after a drunk or drugged driving accident. The type of charge a driver faces can reveal important details about their level of impairment, what substances were involved, and how their negligence contributed to the crash.
For example:
- A DWI charge might indicate a higher level of intoxication, which could strengthen a victim’s claim for punitive damages.
- A DWAI or DUI involving drugs could require different types of evidence, such as toxicology reports, to prove the driver’s impairment.
- In states that recognize multiple levels of impaired driving, prosecutors may pursue or reduce charges depending on the circumstances—but civil liability for injuries often remains the same.
For injury victims, these distinctions matter because they help establish fault and liability in a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced attorney can investigate the crash, review the driver’s charges and test results, and use that evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
Contact Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Whether it’s called a DUI, DWI, or DWAI, impaired driving isn’t just a criminal matter—it’s a serious safety issue that can lead to devastating accidents, life-altering injuries, and emotional trauma. Each type of charge reflects a different level of impairment, but all share one common thread: the potential to harm innocent people on the road.
If you or someone you love has been injured by an impaired driver, you deserve justice and fair compensation. The experienced team at Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers can investigate the crash, gather critical evidence, and fight to hold the negligent driver accountable.
For more information, please contact an experienced lawyer at Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Columbus, OH, and Charleston, WV.
Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers – Columbus, OH Office
20 E Broad St Suite 1000, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 587-8423
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Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers – Charleston, WV Office
10 Hale St Suite 501, Charleston, WV 25301
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