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 Washington State, the criminal offense similar to 'intoxication assault' is typically referred to as 'Vehicular Assault.' Under RCW 46.61.522, a person is guilty of vehicular assault if they operate or drive any vehicle in a reckless manner and cause substantial bodily harm to another, or if they drive under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug and cause substantial bodily harm to another. The term 'substantial bodily harm' is defined under RCW 9A.04.110 and includes injuries that involve a considerable risk of death, cause serious permanent disfigurement, or result in the loss or impaired function of any body part or organ. Vehicular assault in Washington is a Class B felony, which can result in serious penalties including imprisonment and fines. The state does not limit the application of this law to motor vehicles alone; it can also apply to the operation of aircraft, watercraft, or any other vehicle.