What kind of driving behavior might lead to a DWI charge in Minnesota?

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is the primary behavior that leads to a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge in Minnesota. DWI laws are specifically designed to address the dangers posed by impaired driving. When a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is influenced by alcohol or drugs, their reaction times, judgment, and coordination are significantly compromised, which increases the risk of accidents and danger to themselves and others on the road.

While other options, such as driving under the speed limit or having expired license plates, may involve legal infractions, they do not inherently indicate impairment by substances. Careless driving, although it may be unsafe, does not necessarily involve driving under the influence, which is the central concern of DWI laws. The focus of the DWI statute is specifically on the impairment caused by alcohol and drugs, making this the key behavior leading to such charges.