This is a catch-all phrase for any type of impaired driving violation regardless of whether it involves drugs, alcohol or any other type of intoxicating substance. As far as the State of Michigan is concerned, in order to formally charge an individual it must be subdivided into a specific type of charge, whether that be […]
Q. Does operating under the influence just refer to drunk driving?
Yes, the use of marijuana is absolutely prohibited when operating a motor vehicle in Michigan. However once the drug is out of the drivers system, they are no longer restricted from operating a motor vehicle as it is not considered drugged driving. For recreational users of marijuana, this allows them to drive after they are […]
The biggest difference between these two charges is what types of substances they cover. OUID handles drugged driving, as well as drug schedules – which specifically calls the types of drugs that are not allowed when driving. The other side of impaired driving falls under OWI, which covers alcohol intoxication and the legal BAC limits […]
In Michigan, OWI refers to operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This includes not only illegal substances but also prescription and over-the-counter medications if they impair your driving. It’s illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or more. However, if any amount of alcohol or drugs impairs your driving […]
Yes, in Michigan, you can be arrested for OWI even if you’re just sitting in a parked car. This situation often arises when someone decides to ‘sleep it off’ in their car. If you’re in the driver’s seat and have control over the vehicle (like having the keys in the ignition), you can be charged […]
Refusing a breathalyzer test in Michigan has consequences. By driving on Michigan roads, you’ve agreed under the law to submit to a breathalyzer if suspected of OWI. Refusal results in a civil infraction and an automatic license suspension for one year. If it’s your second refusal within seven years, the suspension extends to two years. […]
Yes, penalties for OWI in Michigan become more severe with higher BAC levels. If your BAC is 0.17% or higher, you fall under the “High BAC” or “super drunk” law, which can result in harsher consequences. These include longer jail sentences, higher fines, extended license suspensions, mandatory alcohol treatment programs, and the possible installation of […]
Causing an accident while driving under the influence in Michigan is taken very seriously and can lead to felony charges. The severity of the charges escalates if the accident results in serious injury or death. Penalties can include years of imprisonment, thousands of dollars in fines, and a longer period of license suspension or revocation. […]
Yes, Michigan has a “zero tolerance” policy for drivers under 21. This means any detectable amount of alcohol in their system, defined as a BAC of 0.02% or more, is illegal. The penalties, while usually less severe than for standard OWI, still include fines, community service, and points on the driving record. It’s intended to […]
Yes, you can be charged with OWI in Michigan if prescription medication impairs your driving, similar to alcohol or illegal drugs. It’s important to understand the side effects of any medication you’re taking, especially if it warns against operating heavy machinery or driving. The key factor is impairment, not the legality of the substance.