It’s a nightmare situation for anyone in Texas to face charges of driving while intoxicated. Even if the charges are ultimately dismissed against you, this situation can result in various negative consequences. One thing you might worry about is whether you will lose your driver’s license.
Driving while intoxicated explained
A driver can be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) if they are found operating a vehicle in public while intoxicated due to alcohol or drugs or a combination of both. Although the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, it’s possible to face such charges even if your BAC is under that amount.
If a police officer pulls a driver over on reasonable suspicion, they can ask them to submit to a field sobriety test or a breath test or both. If the officer deems the individual as being intoxicated, they can arrest them for DWI.
DWI and driver’s license suspension
Anyone who is arrested on DWI charges faces consequences involving license suspension. This is known as an Administrative License Revocation (ALR). The suspension occurs within 40 days of their arrest date. In this situation, it’s crucial to request an ALR hearing within 15 days of the arrest. During the 40-day period, drivers are still able to drive as long as they have requested a hearing.
Penalties for DWI
If a person is convicted of a first DWI offense, they can face a fine of a maximum of $2,000 and anywhere from 90 days to one year in jail. There are also fees associated with regaining a license. Second, third and further offenses have higher penalties. A second conviction involves a maximum fine of $4,000 and jail time ranging from one month to one year. Meanwhile, a third conviction of DWI carries a maximum fine of $10,000 and two to 10 years of prison.
DWI charges can affect your ability to drive. Even if you’re found not guilty, you may still lose your license for some time, which can negatively impact your life.