What Does DWI Stand for Police?
Drinking and driving is a serious offense that can have severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and even license suspension or revocation. In this article, we will delve into the world of DWI, answering the question: What does DWI stand for police? We will also explore the different types of DWI, the legal definitions, and the penalties associated with this offense.
What Does DWI Stand for Police?
DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated, which refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The police and law enforcement agencies use the term DWI to describe this offense, which is considered a serious crime in most states.
Types of DWI
There are different types of DWI, each with its own set of consequences:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): This type of DWI occurs when a person operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI): This type of DWI occurs when a person operates a vehicle while their ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drugs, but their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit.
- Drunk Driving (DD): This type of DWI occurs when a person operates a vehicle while severely intoxicated.
Legal Definitions
Each state has its own legal definition of DWI, but the common elements are:
- Operating a motor vehicle
- Impairment caused by alcohol or drugs
- Risk to oneself or others
The legal limit for BAC varies from state to state, ranging from 0.08% to 0.10%. Some states have stricter laws, such as Utah, which has a legal limit of 0.05%.
Penalties for DWI
The penalties for DWI vary depending on the state, but common penalties include:
- Fines: Fines can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Jail Time: Jail time can range from a few days to several years.
- License Suspension or Revocation: License suspension or revocation can range from 30 days to a lifetime.
- Community Service: Community service can range from a few days to several weeks.
- Ignition Interlock Devices (IID): Some states require IID installation for a period of time after a DWI conviction.
What Happens When You’re Stopped by the Police for DWI?
If you’re stopped by the police for DWI, you can expect the following:
- The Officer Will Ask You to Step Out of the Vehicle: The officer will ask you to step out of the vehicle to conduct a series of field sobriety tests (FSTs) and observe your behavior.
- FSTs May Include: FSTs may include walking in a straight line, heel-to-toe walking, and balancing.
- The Officer Will Check Your BAC: The officer will check your BAC using a portable breath tester or a Breathalyzer machine.
- You Will Be Taken into Custody: If your BAC is above the legal limit or if the officer suspects you’re impaired, you will be taken into custody.
Facts and Statistics
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 10,511 DWI-related fatalities in the United States in 2018.
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were an estimated 1,000,000 arrests for DWI in the United States in 2018.
- According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the annual cost of drunk driving in the United States is approximately $44,000.
Prevention and Treatment
To prevent DWI, consider the following:
- Plan Ahead: Plan ahead and designate a sober driver before going out.
- Use Public Transportation: Use public transportation or call a taxi if you’re impaired.
- Use Ride-Sharing Services: Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get home safely.
- Stay Alert: Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving.
For those who have been arrested for DWI, there are resources available for treatment and support:
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): AA offers support groups and counseling for those struggling with addiction.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): NHTSA offers resources and information on DWI prevention and treatment.
- State-specific DWI programs: Many states offer DWI programs that provide counseling and support for those arrested for DWI.
Conclusion
DWI is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. By understanding what DWI stands for police, the types of DWI, and the penalties associated with it, we can work together to prevent this crime and support those affected by it. Remember to plan ahead, stay alert, and avoid distractions while driving, and to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction.
