Death caused by drunk driving becomes more common during the holidays.
DALLAS — Fatal drunk driving accidents are more common over the holidays, turning a time of celebration into a time of mourning for families accross Texas.
One in four traffic deaths across the state are caused by drunk drivers, and that ratio increases to 28% during the holiday period, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). In response, law enforcement officials increased enforcement of DUI and DWI laws Dec. 13 through Jan. 1, TxDOT said.
In a press release, Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells warned motorists that if they get pulled over and refuse a breath test, law enforcement will get a search warrant for their blood, the release states.
Last New Year, 47 people were arrested and charged with DWI offenses in Tarrant County, the release states.
“There are no excuses for getting behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” Sorrells said.
What is considered legally intoxicated?
Texas considers you legally intoxicated when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, according to TxDOT. If you are under 21, it is illegal to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
What are the penalties for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)?
On the first offense, motorists could be fined up to $2,000 and be sentenced to up to 180 days in prison, according to TxDOT. Offenders can also lose their driver’s license for up to a year.
On the second offense, motorists could receive up to a $4,000 fine and one month to a year upon conviction, TxDOT said. It can also result in a two-year suspension of the offender’s driver’s license.
Three-time offenders can be fined up to $10,000 and face two to 10 years in prison, according to TxDOT. Offenders could also lose their driver’s license for up to two years.
Fines of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 will also be assessed upon sentencing.
If you drive impaired with a child, you will be charged with child endangerment with an extra fine of up to $10,000, a possible two-year jail sentence, and an additional 180-day suspension of your driver’s license.