It seems like these days almost everyone knows someone who has been arrested for a DUI. The surprising thing is that despite the commonality of the phrase there is a lot of misunderstanding regarding what a DUI actually is.

The abbreviation DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence.” More commonly, people refer to it as drunk driving. However, that is not necessarily an appropriate meaning because a DUI does not simply refer to alcohol which drunk driving implies. A DUI can actually refer to alcohol, but also other drugs legal and illicit. Additionally, people may thing that you can only get a DUI while driving a car, but that is not true. In fact, a DUI can be given for those driving cars, motorcycles, boats, trucks, and even planes.

Since a DUI is treated in the same manner as any other criminal offense, the consequences are also more severe. The reasoning behind this is that before you can get a driver’s license that you have to pass the written test and part of that is proving knowledge of what driving under the influence entails. In addition, if you are caught and charged with a DUI then you not only put yourself at risk, but also everyone else on the road.

The usual way to determine DUI is by BAC or blood alcohol content but it is not the only means that can lead to a conviction. From state to state the legal limits are different so be aware of your local limits are.

If you go behind the wheel of a car be sure you know what other things fall under the DUI category. It is not alcohol alone but also illegal drugs and many prescription ones that warn of “operating machinery”. All can lead to a DUI conviction.

There are also some strange ways to get a DUI and in some cases you will be surprised that such an offense can come from the use of a supposedly harmless product. Good examples of this are cough syrups and cold medicines. However, it is logical if you think about it since they do have alcohol as an ingredient and if you take too much then it is possible for your BAC to be above the legal limit.

It is hard to say what the consequences of a DUI are since the states do have their own sets of laws. Common punishments are suspended driver’s licenses or restrictions, probation, fines or time in jail.

If is also worth noting that if you are arrested for a DUI you are most likely in for a surprise with your insurance premiums. When you are convicted, you will have to file an SR-22, and your insurance may elect to drop you. Additionally, you have instantly become harder to insure. You are a bigger risk for the company so you will have to pay higher premiums and most likely a higher deductible.

This information is provided solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

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