When most people throw around the phrase DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, they assume the acronym is the correct one and it’s pretty basic. This isn’t always the case, however.
Many other people use DWI, or Driving While Impaired/Intoxicated, interchangeably with DUI, and refer to drinking and driving or using drugs and driving as all the same thing.
This can be dangerous and harmful to your case when dealing with Oklahoma law.
DUI and DWI can have different meanings in Oklahoma, and it’s not always clear what counts as a DUI or DWI. For example, is driving after you’ve taken a pill prescribed by your doctor against the law?
From Jacqui Ford Law, here’s everything you need to know to help you decipher these questions and help you understand what to do if you’ve been charged with a similar crime in the state.
DUI vs. DWI in Oklahoma
People often throw around the terms “DUI” and “DWI” loosely and assume they can be used interchangeably.
There are differences, however.
Specifically, under 47 O.S. § 11-902 of Oklahoma law, it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, or as the law states:
“…under the influence of any intoxicating substance other than alcohol which may render such person incapable of safely driving or operating a motor vehicle.”
This “DUI” statute means that if you blow a blood alcohol content (BAC) 0.08 or above, you will be charged with a DUI. The statute does not include specific amounts of intoxicating substances that must be in your system in order to be charged with a crime.
However, under 47 O.S. § 761, the state of Oklahoma prescribes a lesser BAC in order to be charged. This “DWI” statute says that if you blow between a 0.05 to 0.07 you may be charged with driving while “impaired.” Violation of this statute carries lighter penalties than the “DUI” statute discussed above.
What Substances Count as Driving While “Intoxicated?”
Many people assume that DUI or DWI laws are only associated with alcohol. However, as you will notice in the definition above, Oklahoma law defines these laws as the operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of “intoxicants.” Yes, this can include alcohol, but this can also mean both illicit drugs or even prescription medications.
Most driving under the influence of illicit drug charges in Oklahoma involve drugs that could include:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Ecstasy/molly
- Methamphetamine
But drivers in the state can be charged if any trace of a Schedule I drug is found in their system.
In addition to illegal drugs, motorists may also face charges if they are deemed to be intoxicated by medically-prescribed medications. The most common of these drugs include:
- Xanax
- Lortab
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
- Muscle relaxers
It’s also important to note that a driver may also be changed if they have consumed a significant amount of over-the-counter drugs, such as cough syrup, nighttime cold or flu medicine, or anything that may cause drowsiness or lightheadedness.
Contact Jacqui Ford for Oklahoma Defense Today
Although there is no formal distinction between DUI and DWI in Oklahoma, both can come with significant penalties and both are taken very seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors. However, every case is unique and it’s important to have an experienced and qualified attorney like Jacqui Ford, who knows the nuances of Oklahoma law.
Your defense attorney can review your case and ensure your best defense is put forward. If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence in Oklahoma, contact Jacqui Ford Law today.
