If you’ve been in an accident or pulled over after having a drink, you’ve probably heard one of the following terms: “DUI,” “DWI,” or “DWAI.” They may sound similar, but they don’t always mean the same thing. Some states split them into separate charges, while others use the acronyms interchangeably. That can make things confusing, especially if you’re trying to understand your rights after a crash.
Let’s examine each term in more detail, as well as how other states use them and how Missouri handles drunk driving cases.
What Do DUI, DWI, and DWAI Stand For?
Although the letters overlap, each acronym technically stands for something a little different.
- DUI means “Driving Under the Influence.” This is one of the most widely used terms in the country and usually refers to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- DWI stands for “Driving While Intoxicated.” In some states, this is the preferred term for the same offense. In others, it might refer to a more serious charge than DUI, often linked to a higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
- DWAI translates to “Driving While Ability Impaired.” This term isn’t used everywhere — you’ll see it in places like New York or Colorado, where drivers can be charged if their ability to drive is slightly impaired and their BAC is below the legal limit for a DWI.
So, while the definitions share much in common, the way they’re enforced depends on where you live.
What Terminology Does Missouri Law Use?
In Missouri, the terminology is more straightforward.
Missouri’s criminal code recognizes DWI as the official charge. Drivers can be charged with a DWI if their BAC is .08 or higher, or if drugs (illegal, prescription, or even over-the-counter) impair their ability to drive safely. Under Missouri’s Zero Tolerance law, drivers under 21 can face charges at just .02 BAC.
While people casually say “DUI,” the law in Missouri is clear: DWI is the legal term. DWAI does not exist in Missouri statutes.
What Is a DWI Charge in Missouri?
A DWI charge in Missouri is not something to take lightly. Even for first-time offenders, the consequences can be life-changing. Penalties may include:
- Jail time or probation
- Fines and court fees
- Suspension or revocation of a driver’s license
- Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs
- Installation of an ignition interlock device in a driver’s vehicle
These punishments escalate quickly if a driver’s BAC is very high, if they’ve had previous DWIs, or if the case involves a crash with injuries. Repeat offenses can shift from misdemeanors to felonies, which carry even harsher penalties.
In short, a DWI in Missouri is a serious charge, and the consequences can extend well beyond a night in jail.
Criminal vs. Civil Consequences
What many people don’t realize is that a DWI can affect someone two different ways: criminally and civilly.
On the criminal side, the court decides whether the guilty party faces fines, probation, or jail. On the civil side, the Department of Revenue controls the driver’s license. Even if their criminal case is reduced or dismissed, they could still lose their license for a period of time.
This two-track system can make DWIs particularly complex in Missouri.
How DWIs Affect Personal Injury Cases
For victims of drunk driving accidents, the difference between DUI, DWI, and DWAI doesn’t matter nearly as much as the facts.
Victims in Missouri can pursue compensation for things like:
- Medical expenses, including hospital stays and ongoing care
- Lost wages and reduced ability to earn in the future
- Pain and suffering tied to the physical and emotional impact of the accident
- Damage to your vehicle or other property
In some especially reckless cases, Missouri juries may also award punitive damages to punish the driver and deter similar behavior.
At the end of the day, a DWI conviction provides powerful evidence that impairment played a role in causing the crash.
Why Evidence Is So Important
Evidence is the backbone of any DWI-related accident case. Without it, proving liability becomes much harder. Some of the most valuable evidence includes:
- Police reports and BAC test results
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Video or photos from traffic cameras or smartphones
- Medical records showing intoxication or injury details
- Expert opinions from accident reconstruction specialists or toxicologists
Strong evidence makes it more likely that the insurance company will settle fairly and less likely that they’ll succeed in minimizing or denying your claim.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Crash
If you’ve been injured by an impaired driver, knowing what to do right away can protect your health and your legal rights. Here are some basic steps you should take:
- Get medical care immediately. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away, but doctors can document them early.
- Call the police. A police report is vital, and any resulting DWI charge will help your case.
- Gather evidence if you can. Photos, witness names, and medical bills are all useful.
- Talk with a lawyer. An attorney experienced in Missouri car accident cases can deal with the insurance company and make sure you aren’t shortchanged.
Taking these steps doesn’t guarantee results, but it puts you in the best position to protect yourself and your future.
Contact Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers to Schedule a Free Consultation With a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
Whether you call it a DUI, DWI, or DWAI, one thing is clear: impaired driving puts lives at risk. In Missouri, a DWI can change your life in an instant — both for the driver charged and for the victims of a crash.
If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver, you deserve strong legal support. At Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers, we’re here to stand by your side, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.Call us today to set up your free consultation with a St. Louis car accident lawyer.
For more information, contact the best personal injury lawyer in St. Louis, MO at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers. We proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County, and we have offices in St. Louis, Chesterfield, Clayton, and Creve Coeur.
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1010 Market Street, Suite 1605
St. Louis, Missouri
(636) 519-0085
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Chesterfield Office
400 Chesterfield Center Suite 600
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 999-9587
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
11628 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 320
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314) 557-2869
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Clayton Office
7733 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 1100
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 804-4569
