Originally Posted by squeakr

DWI is an acronym for driving while intoxicated. A similar acronym, DUI, is used in other states which stands for driving under the influence, and yet another acronym, DWAI, may be encountered which signifies driving while ability impaired.
Under section 1192 of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL), the prohibitions against a motorist's consumption of alcohol or drugs include:

Driving while ability impaired: "No person shall operate a motor vehicle while the person's ability to operate such motor vehicle is impaired by the consumption of alcohol" (VTL §1192[1]). A first violation is a traffic infraction.

http://criminaljustice.state.ny.us/ops/erc/faqs.htm