DWIs have always been a major cause for arrest in Dallas. At 1st Call Bail Bonds, we see many people walk through our doors seeking help for friends and family who’ve been arrested after drinking and taking the wheel.
Dallas County DWI Arrests Then
Back in 2012 when we first reported on DWI arrest statistics in Dallas, the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department recorded the following DWI arrests from December 21, 2012, to January 1, 2013:
- 25 misdemeanor DWI arrests
- 1 DWI 3rd felony arrest
- 2 DWI with child in vehicle arrests
- 3 DUI minor arrests
31 DWI-related arrests in 11 days is an alarmingly high number in our book, and that was around 10 years ago before drinks could be ordered online and taken to-go in some instances like with Margaritas at Taco Cabana.
Dallas County DWI Arrests Now
Fortunately, as we fast-forward to 2024, the landscape of DWI enforcement and prevention has evolved significantly. Thanks to increased awareness, stricter laws, and enhanced public safety campaigns, the number of DWI arrests has fluctuated rather than skyrocketed over the years.
Digging into the specific data for last year’s holiday season isn’t available, but overall numbers for 2023 show that Texas still faces a big problem when DWIs are involved. According to the Virtue Recovery Center, Texas experienced 26,080 crashes and 1,138 fatalities due to DWI accidents.
Recent trends show a continuous effort by law enforcement to reduce impaired driving. From the “Drive Sober. No Regrets” campaign from TxDOT to House Bill 393, forcing those who kill guardians or parents in a DWI accident to pay child support until the victim’s children turn 18, there are many steps in play to help mitigate DWI incidents that tear multiple family’s worlds apart every year.
Increased Patrols
During the holiday season, Dallas County and surrounding areas intensify their efforts to prevent impaired driving through increased patrols and setting up dedicated DUI checkpoints.
These measures are particularly prominent during “No Refusal” weekends, which have been in place across Dallas and other parts of Texas since 2008. During these weekends, law enforcement can obtain search warrants to conduct blood tests on suspected drunk drivers who refuse breathalyzer tests.
The frequency of checkpoints and the presence of officers on the roads surge during major holidays like Christmas and Independence Day, when alcohol consumption is prevalent. Through “No Refusal” weekends, authorities can efficiently screen drivers who may be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Local authorities have invested heavily in public awareness campaigns, reminding residents of the dangers of drinking and driving and promoting alternative transportation options.
For example, during the Independence Day holiday, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) runs the “Drive Sober. No Regrets” campaign we touched on earlier.
This initiative heightens law enforcement efforts to reduce the number of DUI-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
This public awareness campaign runs from June 21 through July 7, the heart of the summer holidays. This time of year is full of festivities and congested roads, so increased patrol helps keep Texas roads safer from DWI incidents.
Stricter Penalties
Since 2012, the penalties for DWI offenses have become more severe, with harsher consequences for repeat offenders and those caught with minors in the vehicle.
For example, Deferred Adjudication for First-Time Offenders passed in September 2019. This new law allows first-time DWI offenders to have charges deferred. If an offender completes probation, the DWI is removed from their record.
However, if they commit another DWI offense, the first offense can be used against them to impose harsher penalties.
Texas has also made moves to increase penalties for repeat DWI offenders. A second DWI offense can lead to aggressive measures to prevent an individual from driving drunk.
Although a second offense isn’t considered a felony, it does come with several severe outcomes, like a $4,000 fine, up to 1 year in jail, potential 2 year license suspension, and the installation of a breathalyzer device that only starts your vehicle if you are stone-cold sober.
What You Can Do to Avoid DWI Arrest
Getting a DWI in Dallas is no walk in the park. However, DWIs are a purely avoidable situation. If you’re concerned about your or a loved one’s habits, here are some things you can do to avoid a DWI arrest.
Plan Ahead
We aren’t saying don’t go out for a fun time on the town, but simply, plan ahead. If you know you’ll be drinking, find a safe way home. This is as easy as coordinating a designated driver through a rideshare service. If the party makes its way to a friend’s house, you can also plan to stay overnight so you can sober up!
Be Aware of the Law
Understand that even a small amount of alcohol can impair your ability to drive. In Texas, the legal limit is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%, but you can still be arrested for DWI with a lower BAC if you’re impaired.
Look Out for Others
If you see someone who has been drinking or even seems impaired, step in before they get themselves behind the wheel. Even if you aren’t able to drive them home, offer to call a rideshare on their behalf.
Educate Young Drivers
If you have teenagers or young adults in your family, talk to them about the risks and legal consequences of driving under the influence, including the specific penalties for underage drinking and driving in Texas.
DWI Bail Bonds Made Easy With 1st Call Bail Bonds
A DWI arrest can quickly turn that festive spirit into a stressful and overwhelming situation. At 1st Call Bail Bonds, we’re here to help you through this difficult moment. Our experienced team in Dallas is available 24/7 to assist with DWI bail bonds, getting you back home with your family as soon as possible. Don’t let a DWI arrest ruin your holidays—call us at 214-748-0000 to get the support you need right now.
Remember, your first call should be to 1st Call Bail Bonds. We’re committed to helping you get back on track with fast, reliable service when you need it most.
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