A person commits the criminal offense of intoxication assault if the person operates a motor vehicle while intoxicated and causes an accident that results in the serious bodily injury of another person.

Some states have a broader definition of intoxication assault and may charge an intoxicated person who negligently causes serious bodily injury to another person while operating a motor vehicle, an aircraft, a watercraft, or an amusement ride with the crime of intoxication assault.

Intoxication assault is a felony offense and may be punished by significant jail or prison time. Intoxication assault laws are generally located in a state's statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Connecticut, the criminal offense similar to what is described as 'intoxication assault' in other jurisdictions is typically charged under the state's DUI (driving under the influence) laws. When an individual operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and causes serious physical injury to another person, they can be charged with Assault with a Motor Vehicle (Connecticut General Statutes Section 53a-60d). This is a Class D felony. The term 'serious physical injury' is defined as physical injury which creates a risk of death, or causes serious disfigurement, serious impairment of health or serious loss of the function of any bodily organ. Penalties for this offense can include significant jail time, fines, and a driver's license suspension. The specific circumstances of the incident, such as the level of intoxication and the severity of the injuries caused, will influence the exact penalties imposed.