Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses in any state. In Pennsylvania, the two terms are often used interchangeably to refer to impaired driving, but there is a subtle difference between the two. Understanding the difference can help you protect your rights if you are ever charged with drunk or impaired driving. In this blog post, we’ll explore the difference between DUI and DWI in Pennsylvania and what it means for drivers in the state.
Firstly, DUI stands for driving under the influence while DWI stands for driving while impaired. DUI relates to drivers who are under the influence of drugs while DWI relates to drivers who are under the influence of alcohol. The difference may seem minor, but it can have a significant impact on the legal consequences of a DUI or DWI charge. Pennsylvania law allows the prosecution to charge an individual with a DUI or DWI based on the circumstances of the arrest, the level of impairment, and any prior convictions.
Secondly, Pennsylvania has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21 years old who are caught driving with any amount of alcohol in their system. Such drivers can be charged with a DUI. In contrast, a driver aged 21 or older can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 or higher. If the BAC is at least 0.10, the driver can be charged with a high BAC DUI.
Thirdly, DWI charges are more severe than DUI charges in Pennsylvania. A DWI charge implies that the driver’s impairment is more severe, and the driver poses a more significant danger to other road users. Additionally, a DWI charge has more severe legal consequences. If found guilty of DWI, a driver can face a fine, a license suspension, and jail time, among other penalties.
Fourthly, a DUI charge can still have severe consequences as well. Drivers facing DUI charges may need to attend drug and alcohol treatment programs, pay hefty fines, serve jail time, and even have their license suspended or revoked. The severity of the penalties will depend on the driver’s prior convictions and the circumstances surrounding their arrest.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the legal definitions of DUI and DWI can vary from state to state. Therefore, if you are charged with any of the charges, you need to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney in Pennsylvania. An experienced attorney will understand the laws and help you build a strong defense aimed at minimizing the charges or dismissing the case altogether.
There is a difference between DUI and DWI charges in Pennsylvania. The difference may be subtle, but it can have a significant impact on the legal consequences of a charge. In any case, it’s always best to avoid driving under the influence or while impaired. However, in the unfortunate event that you find yourself facing a drunk or impaired driving charge in Pennsylvania, consult with an experienced attorney. An experienced attorney will help you navigate the legal system and ensure you get a fair and just outcome.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.