Reader’s Question:

I live in Texas and I was curious as to what are the different DWI laws applicable in my state. My boyfriend was convicted a DWI arrest and I want to know what are the penalties for a DWI arrest.

Hannah

Fort Worth, TX

In Texas, it is illegal to drive while intoxicated, it means that either your blood alcohol content is 0.08 or more or you are physically and mentally incapable because of the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is punishable by a minimum term of 72 hours in jail. This offense is a class B misdemeanor. Upon a second conviction is a class A misdemeanor, the penalty is increased to a minimum term of 30 days in jail. A third conviction is a felony of the third degree, punishable by a term of not less than two years, not more than ten years. In addition, a fine of up to $10,000 may be required.
Driving while intoxicated and causing someone “serious bodily harm” (meaning that there was a) a substantial risk of death, b) serious permanent disfigurement, or c) protracted loss/impairment of function of a body member or organ) is a third degree felony, punishable by a term of not less than two years, not more than ten years. In addition, a fine of up to $10,000 may be required.

Driving while intoxicated and causing the death of another is second degree felony, punishable by not less than two years, not more than 20 years. In addition, a fine of up to $10,000 may be required.
Driving while intoxicated with a minor (under the age of 15) in the car is termed a state jail felony, punishable by a term of not less than 180 days, not more than two years. In addition, a fine of up to $10,000 may be required.

Reader’s Question:

Do I have to have car insurance in Fort Worth TX? What If I don’t have? What will happen?

Leo

Fort Worth, TX

Thanks for asking, Leo. Yes, under Texas law, drivers are required to have a car insurance to be able to pay for the accidents they cause. Automobile liability insurance pays to treat people injured in a car accident. They also pay for the repair or replacement of other driver´s damaged property.

You must have sufficient car liability insurance to pay up to $25,000 in medical expenses for each person injured in an accident, up to a combined total of $50,000 for everyone who was harmed in an accident. Plus, you also must have at least $25,000 in coverage to pay to repair or replace the other driver´s automobile. Basic minimum liability coverage is often called “25/50/25 coverage” because of these coverage amounts.
In Texas, driving without car insurance is against the law. During any traffic stop a law enforcement officer will require you to show proof that you have car insurance. You will be provided with an “insurance card” by your insurance company that will qualify as proof. If you are unable to show this proof of insurance, you will probably get a ticket and could face a fine of $175 to $350 for a first offense. If you’re again stopped without proof, you could be charged up to $1,000, your car could be impounded for 180 days, and your driver´s license may be suspended.