Is Buzzed Driving Drunk Driving?
Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) is a serious criminal offense that no one wants on their record. For this reason, it’s essential to determine if someone can be charged for an OWI if they are buzzed.
Buzzed Driving & OWI
State law says that it’s illegal for people to operate motor vehicles while intoxicated, but what does this mean legally?
Michigan law states that operating while intoxicated is defined as the following:
- Having a 0.08% blood alcohol content;
- Being under the influence of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance.
The first definition is what we typically picture when we think of drunk driving. You might have heard someone say that “as long as you’re blowing under 0.08%, you’re fine.”
However, that’s not the case.
An officer can arrest you for driving while under the influence as long as there is evidence to corroborate that claim. Therefore, if you’re buzzed enough to the point that your ability to drive is impaired, and an officer witnesses your erratic driving, you could be arrested for OWI regardless of your BAC.
In short, this means that buzzed driving may be drunk driving depending on the circumstances of the situation!
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Have You Been Accused of OWI
If you or a loved one has been accused of an OWI, you don’t have to fight the charge on your own. White Law is here to defend you against accusations of criminal conduct. If you want experienced representation by your side, call us now!
Call (517) 316-1195 now for a consultation for your case!
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