When actress Sally Struthers, best known for her role as Gloria Stivic on All in the Family, was arrested in Maine on suspicion of drunk driving in 2012, many headlines focused on the celebrity angle. 

But the case also highlights an interesting aspect of America’s legal system: Why was she charged with OUI instead of DUI? If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between DUI, DWI, OUI, OVI, and OWI, you’re not alone. 

Sally Struthers’ OUI Arrest in Maine

In September, Emmy Award-winning actress Sally Struthers, then 65, was arrested in Ogunquit, Maine, on allegations of impaired driving after being stopped around 12:30 a.m. Struthers, who regularly performed with a local theater group, reportedly cooperated with officers and was later released after posting $160 bail.

She denied the allegations and was scheduled to appear in court to face charges of Operating Under the Influence (OUI) in Maine.

What Is the Difference Between DUI, DWI, OUI, OVI, and OWI?

One of the most confusing aspects of impaired driving laws is that every state seems to have its own acronym.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Used in Utah and most U.S. states.
• DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): Used in several states, often with a similar legal meaning.
• OUI (Operating Under the Influence): Used in Maine and Rhode Island.
• OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired): Used exclusively in Ohio.
• OWI (Operating While Intoxicated): Used in states including Iowa, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

Different names, same basic concept: operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Utah DUI Laws Are Much Tougher

While Sally Struthers’ case occurred in Maine, drivers in Utah face significantly harsher punishments for a first-time DUI conviction.

Maine First-Time OUI Penalties

• Minimum $500 fine
• 90-day driver’s license suspension
• Jail time generally only if aggravating factors exist
• Alcohol education may be ordered at the judge’s discretion

Utah First-Time DUI Penalties

• Minimum fines and surcharges totaling approximately $1,300
• 120-day driver’s license suspension
• 48 hours in jail or 48 hours of community service
• Mandatory substance abuse screening and education
• Possible probation and other court-ordered requirements

Fun Fact: Utah also has the lowest legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the country at 0.05%, making it easier for drivers to face DUI charges than in most other states.

What To Do If You’re Charged With a Utah DUI

If you’re arrested for DUI in Utah:

• Remain polite and cooperative with law enforcement.
• Exercise your right to remain silent until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
• Contact an experienced Utah DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible.
• Act quickly to protect your driver’s license and legal rights.

What Not To Do

• Don’t assume a first offense is “no big deal.”
• Don’t plead guilty without understanding your options.
• Don’t ignore court dates or DMV deadlines.
• Don’t rely on what happened in another state. (Utah DUI laws are very different.)

Celebrity DUI arrests often make entertaining headlines, but they also remind us that impaired driving laws vary dramatically from state to state. Whether it’s called OUI in Maine or DUI in Utah, the legal consequences can be significant.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for a DUI in Utah, understanding your rights and obtaining experienced legal representation can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.

Need help with a Utah DUI charge? Contact Intermountain Legal today to discuss your case and learn how an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney can help protect your future.