Texas treats driving while intoxicated as a serious crime. This means that the consequences of a DWI are harsh and potentially life-changing. Upon conviction, you face multiple fines, jail time, probation, driver's license suspension, and more.
What Is A Class B DWI?
What are the Penalties for a Class B DWI in Texas?
Additionally, it's possible that the judge will order that an ignition interlock device, or IID, be placed on the driver's vehicle. The IID is a device installed on a vehicle that will prevent the driver from starting the vehicle if alcohol is detected on their breath. When the driver attempts to start the vehicle, the device will block the signal from the ignition to the starter until a breath sample from the driver is obtained by blowing into the IID. If the device does not detect alcohol, the vehicle will start. If the device does detect alcohol, the vehicle will not start.
An arrest for DWI in Texas sets in motion two separate proceedings. One is the criminal case that may result in the penalties discussed. The other is an administrative proceeding overseen by the Texas Department of Public Safety. These two proceedings are separate and are not connected.
On the 41st day following your arrest, your driver's license will become suspended permanently for a length of time dependent on your number of prior DWI convictions, and whether you refused blood alcohol testing after your arrest.
You'll also be required to pay $2000 each year for three years to the Department of Public Safety as an administrative fee to maintain your driver's license. Fail to make this payment, and you'll receive an automatic driver's license suspension.
Even if you failed your breath test and field sobriety tests, your conviction is far from automatic.
An experienced DWI attorney will you be able to tell you what factors, if any, work in your favor and use these in your defense.
The State of Texas takes driving while intoxicated seriously. This means that you need to take any DWI charges pending against you seriously as well. If you've been charged with a Class B DWI, you want to make sure that you get the best possible legal representation. R.J. Harber is an expert in Texas DWI laws, and his practice focuses on DWI and DUI cases. Contact him for a free, confidential consultation at 214-389-1189, or through his online contact page.