Increased DWI patrols in Texas mean more arrests

Summer marks a time of increased DWI enforcement within Texas. Law enforcement agencies across the state issue press releases alerting motorists about the number of officers that will be out looking for impaired drivers. There is usually a greater police presence on weekends and holidays, as there are more people spending time at gatherings with friends and family.

During the Fourth of July DWI enforcement period in 2012, there were six people killed in alcohol-related crashes, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. The Texas Department of Public Safety reports that over 1,200 people were arrested for DWI. This year, the officers will increase patrols in high-risk areas where individuals have been arrested in the past.

In Dallas, there have been over 2,700 people charged with DWI in 2013 so far, according to the Dallas County District Attorney. The region has long had a number of fatal accidents caused by drunk drivers, and both police and prosecutors have pledged to be aggressive in taking these drivers off of the road.

Those drivers arrested for DWI face serious penalties if they are convicted of the offense. Some motorists may be sentenced to time in prison, and be forced to pay high fines. Penalties also include the loss of a driver’s license, and this suspension can take some time before being able to get back behind the wheel.

While most of the DUI arrests made are for motorists, those taking to waterways in Texas need to remember that these penalties may apply to them as well. Officials with the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife say that wardens with the agency will be focused on spotting boaters that appear to be under the influence.

If you have been arrested and are facing charges of driving while intoxicated, it is important that you understand the seriousness of these allegations. A conviction for DWI will result in significant penalties, and can lead to many more issues long after your case is complete.

This may be the first time you have ever been arrested, and you might be scared and confused about what is going to happen. Police will have a lot of evidence that they may be able to use against you, but there are things that you can do to challenge these items. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you offer a strong defense to these charges. This includes reviewing the evidence of your case, and helping you learn more about your options.