DUI Glossary In Nashville

Definition of Legal Terms related to Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is a common form crime in the U.S. Legal terminology and definitions are confusing for people who are not lawyers. This list covers the most common words, terms and phases that are used in this specific area of law.

1. DUI – The abbreviation for driving under the influence. The most common impairing substance is alcohol. However, in many states they also forbid DUI drugs and DUI toxic vapors.
2. DWI –Dependant on the state practice, this can be interpreted as driving while intoxicated or driving while impaired. Impaired driving typically is caused by impairing substance such as:
- Drugs
- Alcohol
- Prescription drugs
3. OUI - Operating under the influence. Almost in all states it is illegal to "operate or be in physical control" of a car. Meaning, you could be sitting in your car, on the side of the road, while the engine is running and the car is placed in park, and asleep, yet you would still be charged with an OUI.
4. OWI - Operating while intoxicated. Similar to OUI, the operative word is "operating".
5. OMVI - Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated
6. DUIL - Driving under the influence of liquor
7. DUII - Driving under the influence of an intoxicant. Typically applies to those in Oregon
8. DWAI –Driving while ability impaired is considered less severe opposed to a DWI (or DUI) charge. A "lesser offense" offers the person less damage to their driver's license
9. DWUI – Driving while under the influence
10. DUBAL/ UBAL - A type of DUI / DWI that means driving with an unlawful blood alcohol level. This may apply only to cases in which the person arrested has given a blood, breath or urine sample.
11. Open Container - having an open container of alcohol inside your passenger compartment