VTL§ 1192.1, "Driving while ability impaired"
Driving while Ability Impaired, more commonly known as a “DWAI” is a violation. It is not a crime but will stay on your driving abstract. It can also affect insurance premiums.
The statute reads:
“No person shall operate a motor vehicle while the person's ability to operate such motor vehicle is impaired by the consumption of alcohol.”
A first-time conviction for DWAI will carry a fine between $300 to $500, a ninety-day suspension of your driving privileges, and could include the participation in programs like the Victim Impact Panel. While it is more lenient than other DWI convictions, it can also include 15 days in jail.
A second time conviction within 5 years will increase the fine range from $500 to $700 and result in license revocation for six months. The possible jail term also increases to 30 days.
DWAI and DUI convictions stack on top of each other. A third conviction within ten years increases the fine range from $750 to $1,000 and the possible jail term to 180 days. However, the license revocation remains at six months.
Other Traffic Violations We Handle
If you were injured or harmed by an impaired driver, you can contact the Sternberg injury Law Firm to discuss your case.
Disclaimer: All the content of this website has been prepared by Benjamin Goldman Law Office PC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information on this website shall not be construed as an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create, nor shall the receipt of such information constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Our hope is that you will find the information useful and informative, and we would be happy to communicate with you and answer any questions you may have about our legal services. Readers should not act upon the information on this website, or decide not to act based upon the information on this website, without first seeking appropriate professional counsel from an attorney licensed in the home state of the drivers license of the person who received the relevant traffic citation.