OUIL vs. OWI in Michigan
According to the Michigan's Department of State website, drivers with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher are in violation of OUIL, or operating under the influence of liquor, while OWI, or operating while impaired, concerns drug impairment.
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Criminal Records
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In Michigan, a first or second OUIL or OWI offense is considered a misdemeanor, while third or subsequent offenses within a 10-year period are considered felonies.
Jail Time and Mandatory Education
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For a first OUIL or OWI offense, the penalty is up to 93 days. However, as of October 31st, 2010, drivers with a blood alcohol content over .17 percent will have jail time sentences increased to 180 days and will be required to attend at least one year of an alcohol treatment program.
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Fees
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Drivers convicted of a first-time OWI or OUIL offense will have to pay up to $300 in fines for an OWI and between $100 and $500 for an OUIL.
License Suspensions
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License suspensions vary depending on offense, with a first-time OWI leading to a 90-day restricted suspension and a first-time OUIL resulting in a 30-day suspension.
Zero Tolerance Law
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Michigan's Zero Tolerance Law states that drivers under the age of 21 caught drinking and driving will be fined up to $250 and will spend up to 360 hours in community service.
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References
- Photo Credit to drunk to drive image by Marjan Veljanoski from Fotolia.com