Texas DUI/DWI Laws
Texas Drunk Driving Laws

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Texas DUI/DWI Laws

Understanding the DWI Laws and Penalties in Texas

When August, 2005 rolled around, changes DWI laws in every state occurred – including Texas. With the advent of grass-roots organizations like MADD (mothers against drunk driving) cracking down on DWI law makers, legislation was forced to create stricter DWI laws. Since this time, Texas has a new DWI law known as “per se intoxicated”. This allows the courts to convict a person of drinking and driving if the chemical test results were over the state’s legal limit of .08%. No other proof of driving impairment is required.

Texas and Zero Tolerance on Underage Drinking
Another change in the DWI laws was the enactment of Zero Tolerance laws in each state. Implemented to stop underage drinking and driving, this law prohibits anyone under the age of 21 from driving a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .00% or more in Texas.

Texas and Implied Consent Law
Implied consent already affects you. When you received your Texas driver’s license it was the equivalent of telling the state you would submit to a chemical test (blood, breath or urine) if asked by a Texas police officer. If you refuse to take a chemical test, you will receive harsh penalties.

Enhanced Penalty
If you BAC level hits .15% in Texas while driving, you are going to receive an enhanced penalty. This is the result of driving so far over the legal limit of .08%. Penalties can range from longer jail time to heavier fines.

Losing Your Driver’s License
When you are convicted of DWI in Texas, you will lose your license for 90 days for a first offense and 180 days for a second or third offense. Also with a third offense, it is possible for the court to confiscate your vehicle. If you want to get it back, get ready to pay heavy fines and administrative costs.

Ignition Interlock in Texas
While this can only occur in limited circumstances in this state, it is possibly for the judge to order the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. To start your car, you must breath into the machine’s tube. If it registers .02% or more, it won’t start.

Hire a Texas DWI Defense Attorney
While the laws and penalties have gotten stricter, this doesn’t mean you can’t win your case. With an experience lawyer who specializes in this complex field of law, you can be well on your way to winning your case.

 



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