Ouil (operating Under The Influence of Liquor)

Several states, including Michigan and Vermont, use the term OUIL (operating under the influence of liquor) to identify drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs and operating a motorized vehicle. It is illegal in these states to drive and have actual physical control of an automobile if the driver is under the influence of alcohol or any other type of controlled substance. "Under the influence" can include having a BAC or blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher which is a per se offense or the inability to safely operate the vehicle due to a physical or mental impairment (regardless of the driver's BAC level).

OUIL penalties may vary and can include a prison sentence if a driver has multiple OUIL convictions or the driver caused injury or death while under the influence of alcohol. Whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor OUIL it is always a good idea to contact an OUIL lawyer for more information. States have also instituted administrative actions, in addition to criminal charges, that allow the state to suspend a driver's license (for a specified time period) if they refuse to submit to a blood alcohol concentration test or fail a blood alcohol concentration test.