Explaining DWI: What It Means and How It Differs From DUI

By Jonathan Blecher on March 12, 2015

DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated or Driving While Impaired. In the state of Florida, the term “DUI” or Driving Under the Influence is the actual crime of drunk driving. Florida’s penalties for DWI are harsh and can have a negative impact on your future. It is important to ensure that you are fully defended for the legal road ahead if you have been charged. As an experienced Miami DUI lawyer, I can aggressively fight for your freedom.

The Bill That Would Have Changed DUI to DWI

In 2012, a bill was proposed to change the state’s DUI laws to DWI. SB 1810 would have revised the state’s law and made it much easier for an alleged offender to be charged with the crime. More than just changing the name of the offense from DUI to DWI, it would have added a provision for blood and urine testing. This would have ultimately affected what the authorities are testing for – which would be drug metabolites. An individual could be found guilty of DWI if his blood or urine tests were found positive for controlled substances or for one of its metabolites. This would have meant that you would not have to be found impaired by a drug to be convicted.

Even without the passing of this law, Florida’s law is still strict when it comes to the offense of driving under the influence. If a Florida law enforcement officer suspects that you are driving under the influence of alcohol, you will need to take aggressive measures to defend your case. Drivers over the age of 21 can be found guilty if he or she has a blood alcohol content level of 0.08%. For drivers under the age of 21, a blood alcohol content level of 0.02% can be enough to prove that he or she is guilty. Commercial drivers are also held to a higher standard and can be charged with DUI if their BAC is at 0.04% or higher.