What is a DUI?

There are many state laws and regulations in regards to driving behavior and actions.  It is important to understand what the laws and regulations are and why they are in place.  A DUI is a special conviction and is considered especially serious due to the harm that driving under the influence poses to others.

Definition

DUI stands for driving under the influence.  Driving under the influence is defined as driving while under the influence of alcohol.  The law regarding how much alcohol is too much varies by state.  Blood alcohol content is measured to determine if an individual is under the influence or not.

How to determine blood alcohol level

Individuals' blood alcohol levels are measured by a breathalyzer test to determine if the individual has a high enough blood alcohol content to be issued a citation for DUI.  Acceptable levels vary by age of the offender.  In Ohio for example, the blood alcohol limit for a 21 or above aged driver is 0.08.  The blood alcohol limit for an underage driver is 0.02.  In addition, the aggravated blood alcohol limit is 0.17.  A conviction with this amount of alcohol in the individual's system leads to more stringent penalties.

Punishment

If convicted of a DUI, an individual will face punishment including suspension of his or her license in increments of six months, one year or two years.  With a third offense, drivers may have their vehicles taken from them.  Some offenders are eligible to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicles, which requires the driver to breathe into a device to check blood alcohol level in order for the vehicle to start.  Drivers who have their licenses suspended will have to pay reinstatement fees.  Repeat offenders may also face time in jail and mandatory attendance at DUI school.