When thinking about impaired driving or driving under the influence, most people typically think of alcohol or “drunk driving.” But, in actuality, impaired driving has changed significantly over time and continues to change. It is now an ever-changing landscape, creating numerous challenges for law enforcement, prosecutors, toxicologists, and highway safety organizations throughout the world.

Whether it’s called driving under the influence (DUI), operating under the influence (OUI), or driving while impaired (DWI), the problems and challenges are evolving. DUI caused by alcohol, commonly referred to as drunk driving, is still a serious problem that demands continued attention and diligence. It has been and remains a worldwide problem that has been part of the driving culture since the advent of the automobile. It is estimated that every day in the United States, 27 people die as a result of drunk driving crashes.