An Overview of Texas DWI Laws
By Jeffrey Grass
Nov. 8, 2012 2:39p
An Overview of Texas DWI Laws
Under Texas state law, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or above, and anyone who violates this law may be charged and convicted of driving while intoxicated.
Penalties for a First-time DWI in Texas
A person convicted of a first-time DWI offense in Texas may be sentenced to up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. In addition, he or she will receive a driver's license suspension of up to one year and will be required to pay an annual fee of $1,000 to $2,000 for three years after driving privileges are restored.
The penalties for DWI increase significantly with each subsequent drunk driving conviction. Additional factors can also lead to increased penalties, such driving with a BAC of 0.15 percent or above, or DWI resulting in death or serious injury.
DWI With a Child Passenger
In Texas, a person can be convicted of the additional offense of DWI With a Child Passenger if he or she commits a drunk driving offense while transporting a passenger under the age of 15. In Texas, DWI With a Child Passenger is a state felony with penalties that include up to two years in jail, a fine of up to $10,000, and a 180-day driver's license suspension if convicted.
Texas Ignition Interlock Laws
Anyone who receives two or more DWI convictions in less than five years is required by Texas law to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he or she owns or operates. An ignition interlock device is a Breathalyzer that connects to the vehicle's ignition system and requires the driver to provide a breath sample before starting the engine. If alcohol is detected in the driver's breath sample, the vehicle will not start.
Get Legal Help if Arrested for DWI in Texas
Even for a first-time conviction, the penalties for DWI in Texas can be steep. Therefore, it is important to seek help from a qualified DWI defense lawyer if you are arrested for a drunk driving offense in Texas. A knowledgeable attorney will make sure your rights are protected in court and can fight to have the charges against you reduced or dropped
