If law enforcement stops you on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and testing shows you have a high BAC, license suspension will be immediate.
You face not only criminal charges but administrative penalties as well and you will become familiar with the ALR program and an ignition interlock device.
A little background
In the state of Texas, DWI charges range from a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense to a third-degree felony for a third or subsequent offense. In addition to heavy fines and possible jail time, you could lose your driving privileges from 90 days to as long as two years.
The ALR program
The Administrative License Revocation program from the Texas Department of Public Safety is a civil process that is separate from any criminal charges resulting from your DWI arrest. Texas is one of 42 states that follows the ALR format, which requires the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license if your blood alcohol concentration level is .08% or higher or if you refuse testing. Keep in mind that this is a process unrelated to your judicial case.
The IID order
Texas law requires that anyone whose driving privileges were suspended due to DWI can only operate a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device. As part of the judicial process, the court must order the installation of an IID for any driver whose BAC level is .15% or higher, even for a first-time offender.
Other penalties
In addition to ALR and the possibility of an IID installation, the penalties you face for a DWI conviction could include compulsory attendance in an education program and payment of an annual surcharge. A successful defense strategy will focus on protecting your rights and producing the best outcome possible for your case.