Protecting Your Rights and Your Freedom

Being charged with driving under the influence can have serious consequences on your life. Unlike other traffic violations, jail time, expensive fines, and probation are all possibilities, even for first-time offenders. Whether you have a criminal history already or this is your first criminal charge, hiring a criminal defense lawyer is the best way to fight DUI or DWI charges.

At Rowland & Yauger, Attorneys & Counselors at Law, our DUI and DWI defense lawyers have extensive experience protecting clients from criminal penalties. We are committed to creating a solid legal defense strategy to protect you from severe punishments. If you want to protect your rights and your freedom after being charged with a DWI, contact our team today at 910-621-2991 (Carthage) or 336-537-5547 (Asheboro).

How Does North Carolina Define DWI (or DUI)?

In North Carolina and around the country, driving under the influence refers to operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) above 0.08%. Driving under the influence of alcohol is often referred to as “DUI.” However, if you are driving under the influence of any substance that impacts the normal control of your mental or physical faculties, you can be charged with driving under the influence.

North Carolina recognizes a charge called “DWI.” DWI stands for driving while impaired. The term was created to avoid confusion about driving under the influence and its reference to alcohol. If you are found driving under the influence of drugs that impact your ability to control a vehicle, you could be charged with a DWI.

Even if the drugs you take are prescribed by a doctor, you could still be charged with a DWI if you are found to be impaired. All drivers on the road have a duty to maintain the safety of themselves and those around them. You can even be charged with a DWI if you become impaired accidentally, like after taking a new prescription.