Driving Under the Influence

In all states, it is illegal to drive while “impaired” by

the effects of alcohol or drugs (including prescription

drugs). “Impaired” means the amount of alcohol or

drugs in the driver’s body is medically sufficient to

prevent him or her from thinking clearly or driving

safely. Local jurisdictions establish the levels at which a

driver is considered “impaired.” Be aware that many

people reach this legal level well before they might

be considered “drunk.” Driving under the influence of

alcohol or drugs jeopardizes the safety of everyone —

drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Due to the tragic human cost that can result from

incidents involving drunk or drug-impaired drivers, OFM

views every allegation of a mission member operating a

motor vehicle while intoxicated or impaired seriously. If

a mission member is stopped by a police officer on the

suspicion that he or she is “driving under the influence”

of alcohol or drugs (DUI) or “driving while intoxicated”

(DWI), OFM recommends full cooperation with local law

enforcement. By heeding the directions of the officer,

the member’s personal safety as well as the safety of the

general public will be ensured. If a mission member is

issued a citation for DUI/DWI, OFM will formally request

a waiver of immunity from the relevant Chief of Mission

so the case may be adjudicated in accordance with local

law. If the waiver is granted, the reported violator will be

required to appear in court on the appointed day and

time. OFM will abide by the court’s decision in these

cases and expect that any fines or conditions imposed

will be satisfied. The court’s determination will be

recorded on the individual’s OFM driving record.

If the request for waiver of immunity is denied, OFM

will immediately suspend the driving privileges of the

offender for a period of up to one (1) year. Consistent

with the Department’s deep concern regarding

the potentially tragic consequences presented by

alcohol-related driving incidents, should a mission

member be involved in a second DWI or DUI offense, it

is Department policy to require that individual to depart

the United States.