Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) (noun)

A legal violation when someone drives or operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other drugs, including recreational and prescribed drugs. This intoxication can be measured either by testing the blood alcohol concentration or by assessing the driver's physical and cognitive impairment. Consequences often include fines, license suspension, and possibly jail time. This term is used interchangeably with similar offenses such as DUI (Driving Under the Influence).