DUI, Impaired Driving,
and Drunk Driving
What’s the Difference?

They All Mean the Same Thing Under Canadian Law

And They’re All Serious Criminal Charges

People use different words to describe the same offence. Some say DUI (Driving Under the Influence). Others say impaired driving, drunk driving, or driving while intoxicated. But in Canada, they all refer to the same legal issue:

👉 Operating a vehicle while your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Under the Criminal Code, it's officially called "impaired operation of a conveyance." That includes cars, trucks, boats, ATVs, even e-scooters in some cases.

👉 Charged with DUI or impaired driving in Windsor? Call Bobby Russon at (519) 792-9391 for a free consultation.

DUI: The Most Common Term

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is the term most people recognize. It's often used in media, U.S. law, and everyday conversation.

Even though "DUI" isn’t the formal legal term in Canada, it's widely understood to mean the same thing as impaired driving.

In legal terms, Canada doesn't distinguish between DUI and impaired driving. They’re the same charge.

Impaired Driving: The Official Term in Canada

The Criminal Code uses the term "impaired driving" or "impaired operation." This covers:

• Alcohol impairment

• Drug impairment (illegal or prescription)

• Combination of both

It also includes refusing to provide a breath or blood sample, which is a separate criminal offence but carries the same penalties.

Drunk Driving: A Common Phrase, But Not a Legal Term

"Drunk driving" is what many people say when referring to DUI or impaired driving, especially when alcohol is involved.

While it’s not used in legal documents, it still refers to the same criminal offence.

Why This Matters

Whether your charge says DUI, impaired driving, or refusal — you are facing a criminal offence. The penalties are the same:

• A permanent criminal record

• Loss of your driver's licence

• Fines, jail, and skyrocketing insurance

• Travel and immigration problems

And while the words may vary, the consequences do not.

👉 Call Bobby Russon, a Windsor DUI lawyer, at (519) 792-9391

Find out what your charge means and how to fight it.

🔍 Real Example: (Three Names, One Serious Charge)

A man was charged with impaired driving after a roadside stop. On social media, he told friends he got a "DUI." His charge paperwork said "impaired operation." His lawyer referred to it as a drunk driving case. All three referred to the same legal charge — and it carried the same penalties.

The terms may change, but the risk to your future does not.

💬 What People Say: (I Didn’t Know It Was This Serious)

"I thought DUI just meant a traffic ticket. I had no idea it was a real criminal charge. Talking to a lawyer helped me understand what was really at stake."

Most people don't know how serious these charges are until it's too late. Get advice now.

What a DUI Lawyer Can Do for You

Whether your paperwork says impaired driving, DUI, or something else entirely, Bobby Russon can:

• Explain your exact charge and what it means

• Identify legal defences you may not know about

• Challenge the breath or blood test evidence

• Raise Charter arguments if your rights were violated

• Negotiate for a reduced charge or dismissal

Before you make a decision, get advice from someone who knows DUI law.

👉  Call Bobby Russon at (519) 792-9391.

FAQs: DUI, Impaired Driving, and Drunk Driving

Are DUI and impaired driving the same thing?
Yes. In Canada, DUI is a commonly used phrase, but the legal term is impaired driving. Both refer to the same offence.

Is "drunk driving" a legal charge?
No. It’s a casual term. The legal charge is impaired operation of a motor vehicle.

What if my charge says refusal?
Refusing to provide a breath or blood sample is a criminal offence that carries the same penalties as DUI.

Is it still a DUI if I was charged after smoking cannabis?
Yes. Impairment by drugs or alcohol is treated the same under the Criminal Code.

Do I need a lawyer even if I think I’m guilty?
Yes. DUI law is complex, and you may have defences. Always speak to a lawyer before pleading guilty.

👉 Facing DUI, Impaired Driving, or Drunk Driving Charges in Windsor?

Call Bobby Russon now at (519) 792-9391 to understand your options and protect your future.