Driving While Intoxicated Laws in Texas

Driving While Intoxicated Laws in Texas

According to statistics, drunk driving occurs more than any other crime. One life is claimed every 5 hours because of DWI cases. It is said that one alcohol-related crash takes place in every 21 minutes that passes. As a matter of fact, Texas has become the national leaders when it comes to alcohol-related traffic deaths. Since then, Texas has been concentrating on solving this problem by generating DWI laws.

The legal age for alcohol in Texas is 21 years old and the legal limit for intoxication is .08 BAC (Blood Alcohol Content); to be determined by alcohol testing procedures. 11% of people arrested in DWI cases are under 21, so Texas implemented a zero tolerance law. An individual arrested by a police officer should submit a specimen to use for alcohol testing and pass the test or else…

First Offense:
• up to $2000 fine
• 72 hours to 180 days in jail
• 90 days to 1 year suspension of driver’s license

Second Offense:
• up to $ 4000 fine
• 30 days to 1 year in jail
• 180 days to 2 years suspension of driver’s license

Third Offense:
• up to $10000 fine
• 2-10 years in penitentiary
• 180 days to 2 years suspension of driver’s license

When it comes to underage drinking, the driver’s license will be suspended for 30 days. In addition will be 8-12 hours of community service to comply and a fine up to $500. The arrested person will also be required to attend an alcohol-awareness class.