Understanding DWI in Texas
Driving While Intoxicated, or DWI, is a serious offense in Texas. Under Texas law, you can be charged with DWI if you are operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Texas is 0.08 percent for drivers 21 years or older. However, even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged with DWI if the officer believes your ability to drive was impaired due to alcohol or drugs. A DWI charge can lead to various penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. For these reasons, it is important to take any DWI charges seriously and seek legal help to ensure the best possible outcome.What Are Open Container Laws in Texas?
Open container laws in Texas regulate the possession and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle. In simple terms, an open container is any alcohol that is in a container that has been opened, has a broken seal, or has had some of its contents removed. Texas law prohibits the possession of an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle while it is being operated, regardless of whether the driver is impaired or not. The law applies not only to the driver but also to passengers. If a passenger is found with an open container of alcohol, both the driver and passenger could face legal consequences. However, open container laws do not apply to certain areas of the vehicle, such as the trunk or the area behind the last row of seats in a vehicle that is not designed to transport passengers. It is important to note that having an open container in a vehicle is not, in itself, a criminal offense if the driver is not impaired. However, the presence of an open container can play a significant role if the driver is suspected of driving while intoxicated.
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Douglas Wilder
Attorney Douglas Wilder has always stayed on the cutting edge of training and attending seminars to ensure he has the most knowledge he can to represent his clients. This has led him to be recognized as one of the Best Lawyers under 40 in Dallas by D magazine, and also recognized as a Super Lawyer for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, & 2023. .
How Open Container Laws and DWI Relate
The relationship between open container laws and DWI charges in Texas is clear. Having an open container in your vehicle while driving can be an additional factor that law enforcement officers look at when determining whether a driver is impaired. If a police officer stops you and notices an open container in the passenger area, they may use it as evidence when determining whether you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. An open container could potentially strengthen the case against you if you are suspected of DWI. For example, if the officer finds that you have an open container of alcohol and also observes signs of impairment, such as slurred speech or erratic driving, they may arrest you on suspicion of DWI. The presence of the open container can suggest that you were drinking while driving, which could lead to further investigation and a more severe outcome in court. On the other hand, if you are stopped for an open container violation but there is no evidence of impairment, the officer may still issue a citation for the open container offense. In this case, you may be able to avoid DWI charges, but it is still important to have legal representation to protect your rights and ensure that the situation is handled correctly.
Better call Doug!! Doug is the best lawyer you can find for DWI or DUI cases in Dallas. I read many reviews before choosing Doug for representing my case. Doug handled DWI and DUI cases for last 25 years, He has good relationships with DA office and is Well respected in the community. I have peace of mind with plea bargain today for my case. He also won other case filed on my license suspension. Amy (Paralegal) will help you through out the case. She is very persistent and detailed about the case details. You will never go wrong for chosing Doug. Goodluck. !!”
- Anil Lingutla
I was charged with a DWI and resisting arrest. Knowing Mr. Wilder previously, I went with the Wilder Law Firm to help me out. Their office was able to get my resisting charge thrown out and reduced my DWI charge for me. This result and lesser sentence allows me a better opportunity to recover from the mistake I made. I appreciate Megan being so kind and patient with me during my process. I would recommend her 10/10."
- Isaac Harrell
After being arrested for DUI, I contacted Doug Wilder upon recommendation. Mr. Wilder and his entire staff were amazing with their professional handling of my case from start to finish. Every time I rang with questions someone answered the phone, no long waits for a return call. This was important to me considering a DUI is so stressful. Mr. Wilder and his staff not only got my case dismissed but also guided me through the process and offered utmost care. I cannot thank them enough and highly recommend the Wilder Firm."
- JJ Canter