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 South Carolina, the offense similar to what is described as 'intoxication assault' in some states is typically referred to as Felony DUI. Under South Carolina law, a person commits the offense of Felony Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if they operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that their faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired, and this conduct causes great bodily injury or death to another person. 'Great bodily injury' is defined as injuries which create a substantial risk of death or which cause serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ. This offense is a felony and carries severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The specific statutes outlining the offense and its penalties can be found in the South Carolina Code of Laws, particularly in Title 56 - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 5 - Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways.