The state of Texas has a .08 blood alcohol concentration limit for intoxication. However, a driver may be issued a citation for impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs regardless of the amount of alcohol. Impairment can begin with the first drink. Depending on body weight, gender, and the food in one’s stomach, a person’s tolerance varies. In general, women, smaller people, and younger people do not have high tolerances.

Once you are stopped, you will be asked to take a blood or breath test. You can deny. However, you will then be automatically subjected to a 180 day driver’s license. In the state of Texas, punishment for DWI depends on the number of previous convictions.

For a person’s first DWI offense, they will spend between 72 hours and 180 days in jail. In addition, they are subject to fines up to $2,000 and their driver’s license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days and a maximum of a year. A second offense carries a possible fine of $4,000. An offender will spend between a month and a year in jail. Their driver’s license will be suspended for a maximum of 2 years. If a person is convicted of DWI the third time, they face up to 10 years in prison, a $4,000 fine, and a driver’s license suspension for up to 2 years.

If you are found in possession of alcohol and are under 21, the following will occur on the first offense: 30 day driver’s license suspension, 8 to 12 hours of community service, alcohol-awareness classes and a fine of up to $500. If a second or third offense occurs, the driver’s license can be suspended 180 days. If the offender is above the age of 17 they face a maximum of $2,000 in fines and 180 days in jail for the third offense.

If you are under the legal drinking age of 21 and are drinking and driving, the following will occur: 60 day driver’s license suspension, $500 fine, 20 to 40 hours of community service, an alcohol awareness classes. Penalties increase with subsequent offenses.

The state of Texas has a zero tolerance rule. That means an individual under the age of 21 cannot possess any alcohol in their blood. The above consequences will occur if the amount of alcohol is very minimal. If the BAC is .08 or greater and the individual is 17 they face up to 180 days in jail.

If you are facing DWI charges contact, contact http://www.dwi-lawyers-austin.com for legal help.

By: Joseph Devine