When I first came to Detroit and was adapting to the bar culture, I heard someone at the next table say, "Be careful, if you get caught as 'Super Drunk,' it can really be a big deal."

At first, I thought it was slang for someone who drinks a lot. But it turns out this is actually a formal legal term in Michigan's drunk driving laws.

In Michigan, it's OUI, not DUI?

Even for those who have lived in the U.S. for a long time, the term OUI might be a bit unfamiliar. Usually, other states use terms like DUI or DWI, right? In Michigan, we call it OUI (Operating Under the Influence), which ultimately means driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

As you know, Detroit has a really vibrant bar culture in the Midwest. If you visit Corktown, Midtown, or Downtown, you'll find pubs and breweries that have been around for decades. Especially on game days for the Lions or Tigers, the bars around the stadium are packed.

By the way, there's another unique expression used by Michiganders: "Party Store." People from other states might think, 'Is that a place that sells birthday party supplies?' but in Michigan, it refers to a liquor store that sells alcohol and snacks. It's a word that confuses everyone when they first arrive.

So what is 'Super Drunk'?

In Michigan, being officially classified as 'Super Drunk' means having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.17% or higher, which is well above the standard DUI limit of 0.08%. In other words, 'regular drunk driving is bad, but you've really crossed the line.'

The scary part is that the penalties are on a whole different level. Even for first-time offenders, the fines are significantly higher than for regular drunk driving, and you may be required to install an ignition interlock device. If you're unlucky, you could end up in jail even on your first offense.

"Oh, I only had a few beers, it should be fine," can lead to serious trouble. The beers sold at American sports venues are much larger than those in Korea, so just a few can easily push you over the limit. It can also vary based on your weight and condition that day.

What's even more troublesome is when you refuse to take a breathalyzer test. Michigan has what's called the 'Implied Consent Law.' This means that obtaining a driver's license is essentially a signature agreeing to comply with any police request for a breath test. So, the moment you refuse, regardless of whether you've been drinking, your license can be immediately suspended, and you face severe administrative penalties.

Because of this, local Detroit residents naturally use Uber or Lyft on drinking days. After a game, if you go downtown, everyone is busy trying to catch a ride on their phones. Why? Because they know that the cost of getting caught for drunk driving is far more than the few dozen dollars for an Uber ride.

If you're going to the bar for a drink, the Uber app is a must!

The term 'Super Drunk' might sound like something from a comedy show, but in reality, it's a serious law that doesn't just end with a few hundred dollars in fines. In the U.S., having a drunk driving record can affect not only your criminal record but also your insurance rates, employment opportunities, and even your immigration status, such as green cards or citizenship.

The vibrant bar culture and sports enthusiasm in Detroit are definitely worth experiencing. Just remember one thing: "If you plan to drink, also plan how to get home."

Having the Uber app ready in advance is the most reliable and affordable insurance to prevent making a mistake that could cost you thousands later!