As is true in all 50 states, driving drunk is illegal and has severe consequences. Not only do drivers put themselves at risk, but they can also endanger the passengers in their car, pedestrians, and people in other vehicles. In Wisconsin, it is illegal for a driver who is at least 21 years old to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or greater. Drivers are also prohibited from driving while under the influence of intoxicants, with any detectable amount of a restricted controlled substance in their bloodstream, and/or while they are under the influence of controlled substances or other drugs. Those below the age of 21 must have complete sobriety when driving or operating a vehicle.
DUI vs. OWI
In many states, the abbreviation DUI is used to refer to the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. However, Wisconsin law refers to this offense as Operating While Intoxicated, or OWI. The Wisconsin statutes consider the “physical manipulation or activation of any of the controls of a motor vehicle necessary to put it in motion” as operating a vehicle. Sec. 346.63(3)(b), Stats. OWI charges do not necessarily require the actual movement of the car, but rather, actions that could do so. For instance, an intoxicated individual who is sitting in the front seat of a stationary but running car could potentially be charged with OWI.
...