what is a owi charge

OWI stands for Operating While Intoxicated or Operating While Impaired, and it is a term used in some states to describe the crime of drunk driving instead of the more common DUI terminology. OWI and DUI offenses usually involve a motorist having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit or otherwise driving unlawfully while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The specific terminology used to charge an individual who has operated a motor vehicle while intoxicated varies by state, and some states use different terminology entirely. For example, in Michigan, OWI is the same as drunk driving or drugged driving. In Iowa, OWI is a broader term than simply driving while under the influence, and it is also illegal to operate a motor vehicle with its engine running, regardless of motion. The penalties for OWI vs. DUI are typically the same, and they can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and rehabilitation programs.