There are various criminal charges for operating a motorized, electric, or otherwise-powered transportation device on public roadways or waterways while under the influence of or intoxicated by drugs or alcohol, as defined by state law. DUI, DWI, OUI, OWI, and BUI—driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated, operating under the influence, operating while intoxicated, and boating under the influence—are some of the common names for such impaired-driving or impaired-operating criminal offenses.

Laws regarding the definitions and names of such alcohol and drug-related driving offenses vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.

In Colorado, the primary statute governing the operation of motorized vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is referred to as 'Driving Under the Influence' (DUI) and 'Driving While Ability Impaired' (DWAI). Under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 42, Article 4, Part 13, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for DUI, and 0.05% but less than 0.08% for DWAI. The law also covers operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Additionally, Colorado has 'Boating Under the Influence' (BUI) laws, which make it illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The BUI laws are found under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 33, Article 13, which states that a BAC of 0.08% or higher constitutes BUI. Penalties for these offenses can include fines, jail time, community service, and the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. Colorado takes a strong stance against impaired driving and boating to ensure the safety of all individuals on roadways and waterways.