You’re driving home, maybe after dinner or a long day, when flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. Moments later, an officer starts asking questions. Words like DUI or DWI come up, and suddenly everything feels uncertain.
Most people have heard both terms, but not everyone knows the difference. Some think they’re the same, others assume one is worse. In reality, the meaning depends on where you are—and that difference can shape how a case plays out in court.
If you’ve been charged, or if you’re trying to help someone who has, knowing exactly what those letters stand for can make a big difference. In South Carolina, the laws are specific, and the consequences can be serious. That’s why working with a law firm like Truslow & Truslow PA can be so important. We help people understand what they’re facing and how to move forward with confidence.
DUI vs. DWI: What’s the Real Difference?
At first glance, DUI and DWI might seem like two versions of the same thing. Both involve impaired driving, and both carry serious legal consequences. But depending on where you live, the difference between the two could affect everything from the charges you face to the penalties that follow.
DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence. It usually refers to operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that can impair your judgment or coordination. In South Carolina, DUI is the most commonly used term when someone is charged with this type of offense.
DWI, short for Driving While Intoxicated or Driving While Impaired, is more commonly used in other states. In some places, DWI is considered a more severe offense than DUI. In others, the distinction is based on the type or level of impairment. The laws vary by jurisdiction, and in many cases, the terms are not interchangeable.
Here in South Carolina, the law focuses primarily on DUI. Whether the impairment comes from alcohol, prescription medication, or illegal substances, the charge usually falls under the DUI category.
The language used in a charge may seem like a technical detail, but it can influence how a case is handled in court. If you or someone you care about is facing this kind of charge, knowing the exact legal terms and what they mean is an important first step. Legal guidance from a knowledgeable defense team can make all the difference when the stakes are high.
Legal Consequences: How the Charges Differ
DUI and DWI might sound alike, but the legal outcomes can vary depending on where the offense takes place. Some states see one as more serious than the other, while others treat them the same under different names. What really matters is how your state enforces the law.
In South Carolina, DUI is the term used most often. A first offense can bring fines, a suspended license, required alcohol education, or time in jail. The level of impairment and the situation at the time of the arrest often influence how severe the penalty will be.
If a person has been charged before, the consequences usually grow more serious. A second or third offense can lead to longer license suspensions, higher fines, and possibly time behind bars. Some drivers may also have to use a device that prevents their vehicle from starting until they pass an alcohol check.
Refusing to take a breath test can also have serious results. Even without a conviction, a person may still lose their license for not complying with the request.
The impact does not stop with the legal system. A conviction can raise insurance rates, limit job opportunities, and stay on your record for years. These effects can follow you long after the case ends.
That is why strong legal support matters. An experienced attorney can look at every detail and help build a defense that protects your rights and your future.
How Truslow & Truslow PA Can Help
Being charged with a DUI is not just a legal issue. It can affect your job, your reputation, and your peace of mind. The steps you take now can shape what happens next.
At Truslow & Truslow PA, we have years of experience guiding clients through DUI cases in South Carolina. We understand how the system works and what matters most when your future is on the line. From the first conversation, we take time to listen, explain your rights, and build a strategy that fits your situation.
Our team carefully reviews every detail, from the traffic stop to the breath test. If something was mishandled or if there is room to challenge the evidence, we will find it. In many cases, we are able to reduce the penalties or protect your record from lasting harm.You do not have to face this alone. Contact Truslow & Truslow PA today to schedule a free legal consultation. We are here to help you move forward with confidence.