Most people in Texas know that driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a crime; however, you may not understand just how serious this offense is. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be faced with life-altering penalties and other ramifications.
You need to know the Texas DWI laws so that you can avoid breaking them and getting into trouble. You can’t go back once you’ve been convicted of a DWI crime. It’s best to learn about these laws before it’s too late.
Texas statute declares that driving while intoxicated is a crime. The legal limit is .08 blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or above. Many people believe that they can’t get into trouble so long as their BAC is below the legal limit, but that’s not true. You can still be charged with a DWI offense if it’s believed that your driving was hindered by alcohol consumption.
Who decides if you’re impaired? Usually the police officer who pulled you over will collect evidence that shows your driving was negatively impacted by alcohol consumption. For instance, if you were swerving all over the road and failed field sobriety tests, you can be charged with a DWI.
It’s important to note that even minors can be charged with a DWI or a DUI. Minors can receive a DUI charge in Texas if they drive with any amount of alcohol in their systems. If they are found to be impaired, they can be charged as an adult with a DWI.
Drunk driving offenses come with legal penalties such as jail, prison, fines, probation, treatment classes, and loss of license. You can also be dealing with other negative effects of a drunk driving conviction, such as loss of job, difficulty securing a job, financial effects, and embarrassment.
Texas DWI laws are complicated. An attorney at our firm can help you to understand the consequences of a conviction if you’re already facing DWI charges. They can also help you fight against a DWI charge and work to reduce the DWI charges and penalties. Call Chris Lewis & Associates, P.C. directly at 214-665-6930 or fill out the online submission below to talk to an attorney about your case now.