Connecticut DUI Law and Charges

The offense of drunk driving is referred to as Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).

The basics of CT DWI / DUI Law

It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, or both.

It is also illegal to operate a motor vehicle within the state with an elevated blood alcohol content of .08 or higher.

Other types of Connecticut drunk driving charges

MINORS - According to CT DUI law, Persons under the age of 21 are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .02 or higher.

COMMERCIAL LICENSE DRIVERS - Under Connecticut DWI law, drivers who have a commercial driver's license (CDL) are prohibited from operating a vehicle with a BAC of .04 or higher. The penalties for CDL holders are more severe, and may be imposed regardless of whether the driver was operating a commercial vehicle or private vehicle at the time of the alleged offense.

MANSLAUGHTER IN THE SECOND DEGREE WITH A MOTOR VEHICLE - Per Connecticut criminal and DUI law, a person is guilty of manslaughter in the second degree with a motor vehicle when, while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug or both, he causes the death of another person as a consequence of the effect of such liquor or drug. Manslaughter in the second degree with a motor vehicle is a class C felony.

ASSAULT IN THE SECOND DEGREE WITH A MOTOR VEHICLE - Connecticut DWI law provides that a person is guilty of assault in the second degree with a motor vehicle when, while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug or both, he causes serious physical injury to another person as a consequence of the effect of such liquor or drug. Assault in the second degree with a motor vehicle is a class D felony.