Driving while intoxicated is no joke in Texas, with harsh penalties for those found guilty.
If you wonder how many DWIs you can have on your record, it is essential to understand the state’s strict stance on drunk driving. Repeated offenses often lead to more severe consequences.
First offense
Even first-time offenders face several penalties in Texas for driving while intoxicated. These can include a fine of up to $2,000, a driver’s license suspension ranging from 90 days to one year and a jail term of 72 hours to 180 days. A court may require installing an ignition interlock device and attending an alcohol education course.
Second offense
With a second DWI, you can receive a $4,000 fine, a jail term ranging from 30 days to one year and a suspension of your driver’s license for up to two years. Like a first offense, a court typically has you attend an education program and get an ignition interlock device.
Third offense
The first and second offenses in Texas are misdemeanors, but a third DWI is a felony. Without a solid defense strategy, you can face harsh penalties. If convicted, a judge may fine you $10,000, sentence you to two to ten years in prison, and suspend your driver’s license for 180 days to two years.
Additional penalties
Certain factors can lead to extra penalties for DWI offenses in Texas. These factors include:
- Open container of alcohol in your vehicle
- Blood alcohol concentration of 0.15% or higher
- Accident resulting in injury or death
These circumstances can result in higher fines, longer jail sentences and extended license suspensions.
Knowing your defense options, such as investigating procedural errors, disputing blood alcohol tests, questioning field sobriety tests and exploring alternative explanations, can help you secure a better outcome in your case.
