DWI, DUI, and Impaired Driving: What You Need to Know After an Arrest in NC

Getting arrested for DWI, DUI, or impaired driving in North Carolina can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone.

Understanding the difference between these charges, what happens after an arrest, and how bail bonds in North Carolina work can make a huge difference in your next steps.

Here’s what you need to know after an impaired driving arrest—and how to move forward with the right support.

The Differences Between DWI, DUI, and Impaired Driving in North Carolina

What Is DWI?

DWI stands for Driving While Impaired—and it's the official legal term used in North Carolina.

It covers impairment by:

• Alcohol
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medications
• Any substance that affects driving ability

Important:

• A BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of 0.08% or higher automatically qualifies as DWI.
  
  
• You can still be charged with DWI even if your BAC is below 0.08% if law enforcement believes you're impaired.

What Is DUI?

DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence.

While commonly used in other states, North Carolina primarily uses DWI for legal charges.

In conversation, you might hear "DUI," but legally, it’s the same as DWI here.

What Is Impaired Driving?

"Impaired driving" is a broader term that covers any type of substance-related driving impairment—including:

• Prescription medications (painkillers, sleep aids)
• Marijuana
• Illegal drugs
• Alcohol and drug combinations

Even if your BAC is low, if substances impair your ability to drive safely, you can still be charged with DWI in North Carolina.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities nationwide, highlighting just how seriously North Carolina law enforcement treats these charges. See the link for more information on drunk driving. 

What Happens After a DWI, DUI, or Impaired Driving Arrest?

After arrest:

• You’ll be taken into custody and booked.
• You may need to stay in jail until you're sober or until a bond is set.
• For first-time offenses, you may qualify for pre-trial release with conditions.

If there are aggravating factors like:

• A high BAC
• Involvement in an accident
• Minor passengers in the vehicle

...the bond amount and restrictions may be much higher. After an arrest, understanding your bail options can make the next steps much easier.

Learn what to expect when posting bail after a DWI arrest with Big Mike Bail Bonds.

Bail Options for Impaired Driving Charges in NC

Secured Bond

• Most common for DWI and impaired driving arrests.
• Requires cash, property, or a bail bond through a licensed bondsman like Big Mike Bail Bonds.

Unsecured Bond

• Less common for DWI.
• You promise to appear in court without upfront payment—but if you miss court, you owe the full bond amount.

Pretrial Release with Conditions

• Instead of paying bond, you may be released under specific conditions like:
  • Alcohol monitoring
  • Random drug testing
  • Substance abuse evaluations

Learn more about secured vs unsecured bonds in this blog post.

Key Conditions You Might Face After Release

• Mandatory court appearances
• Random drug and alcohol testing
• Limited or suspended driving privileges
• Alcohol monitoring (like a SCRAM bracelet)
• Substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment

Violating any of these terms can lead to re-arrest and harsher penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After an Impaired Driving Arrest

1. Missing Court Dates

Missing your hearing leads to an immediate arrest warrant and can hurt your case.

2. Driving Without Permission

If your license is suspended, driving without legal permission can lead to additional charges.

3. Violating Bail Conditions

Ignoring your release terms can land you back in jail, increase your bond, or worsen your court outcome.

FAQs About DWI, DUI, and Impaired Driving Bail

Is there a difference between a DWI and a DUI charge in North Carolina?

No. DWI is the official legal term, but people often say DUI. Both mean impaired driving under NC law.

How is bail set after a DWI arrest?

Judges consider your BAC, past offenses, accident involvement, and flight risk factors.

Can I get out on bail the same night?

Often yes—especially with 24/7 services from Big Mike Bail Bonds.

What if my family member is arrested for impaired driving?

You can post bail for them. We'll walk you through every step and help secure their release.

The Right Help Makes All the Difference

A DWI, DUI, or impaired driving arrest is overwhelming—but with the right team, you can face the situation with confidence.

At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we help you:

• Get out of jail fast
• Understand your release conditions
• Stay on track toward your court date

If you or a loved one needs help after a DWI arrest near Wake County or anywhere in the Triangle, Contact Big Mike Bail Bonds or call 919-934-5656 to get immediate help. We’re available 24/7 to answer your call and start the process.