How is ‘drive’ defined under the OWI statute?

Under the OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) statute, the term 'drive' is specifically defined as the act of exercising control over a vehicle's speed and direction while it is in motion. This definition captures the essence of what it means to actively manage a vehicle as it operates on a roadway or similar surface.

The focus on controlling the vehicle highlights the responsibility of the driver, especially in the context of preventing unsafe operation due to intoxication. Being able to control both speed and direction is crucial for safe driving, as it involves both the decision-making process and physical capability to navigate the vehicle effectively. In many legal contexts, the ability to actually operate the vehicle (beyond just starting the engine or having it in a stationary position) aligns with the safety standards set forth in traffic laws aimed at protecting all road users.

Other definitions that might come to mind, such as simply starting the vehicle or transporting goods, fail to encompass the full scope of responsibility and capability that driving entails, which is why they are not aligned with the legal definition in this context.