November is the beginning of the end of the year, which means that everyone is looking forward to the holidays and celebrating them in full. Pretty soon, office parties and family get-togethers will become more common, and alcohol may be included in your host’s hospitality. If you plan on drinking at any of these gatherings, it’s important to know your limit and refrain from driving when you’re impaired by alcohol.
A DWI charge is nothing anyone wants to deal with during the holidays, and much less because of a holiday gathering. You’ll have to deal with your arrest, court dates, and – if convicted – jail time and fees, depending upon the severity of your charges and if you’ve been convicted of DWI before.
Avoiding the penalties of a DWI, though, can be as simple as avoiding a DWI arrest and charges in the first place.
Here are some reminders of how you can prevent a DWI conviction:
- Never drive if you have consumed drugs or alcohol.
- Never enter your car while impaired, even if you intend to “sleep it off.”
- Designate a sober driver before leaving.
- Download a rideshare app or get the phone number of a local taxi company.
- Ask your host or a nearby friend to stay overnight.
- Consider booking a hotel room within walking distance.
- Make sure any prescription medications you’re taking won’t react negatively with alcohol.
- Beware of DWI checkpoints – sometimes the police publicize when and where they’ll be conducting them.
What Should I Do If I’m Pulled Over for DWI?
If you are pulled over for DWI, immediately find a safe location to do so. This can be along the side of the road, at a turnout, or in a parking lot. Consider turning on your hazard lights to let the officer know you see them and intend to comply.
Once you’ve stopped, the officer will ask for your information. You must provide them with your license and registration, but that is all of the information you are obligated to give. You will be asked questions about your night and what you think you were pulled over for, but you don’t have to answer these questions and should not answer them.
You are not also required to participate in a field sobriety test – walking in a straight line, reciting the alphabet backwards, etc. – and there is no penalty for declining to do so. Keep in mind that under Texas’ implied consent laws, refusing a blood or breath test can cause a revocation of your license whether or not you’re convicted of DWI.
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested for DWI?
If you are arrested for DWI, immediately invoke your right to an attorney and contact The Law Office of Rene A. Flores PLLC for help. Our lawyer has the experience and skill necessary to help people like you fight DWI charges, possibly leading to a case dismissal or reduction of charges.
For more information, call (956) 606-3606 now!