Large Percentage of Convicted Drunk Drivers Are Repeat Offenders
Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a very dangerous act. Not only does it significantly increase the risk of accident–putting both the drivers and others at risk of injury–but it can also have a very negative effect on a person’s life and future opportunities. To be sure, a person who is charged with and convicted of a DUI/DWI offense will likely face large fines and fees, potential jail time and license suspension, and a black mark on their criminal record, which could affect their ability to secure employment or housing in the future.
Despite the large consequences of a DWI conviction, statistics show that a large percentage of convicted drunk drivers are repeat offenders. If you are facing a subsequent DWI charge in Texas, our experienced criminal defense attorney is ready to represent you.
Repeat DWI Offenders in the United States – A Common Offense
According to StatisticBrain, the percentage of people convicted of a DWI who are repeat DWI offenders across the United States is 29 percent. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), shares a similar statistic: that nearly one-third of all drivers arrested or convicted of drunk driving in the United States are repeat offenders.
Consequences for a Subsequent DWI Offense in Texas
Being charged with a DWI offense in Texas is a big deal. And being charged with a second or subsequent offense carries even greater penalties. As explained by the Texas Department of Transportation, a second DWI conviction means:
- A fine of up to $4,000;
- 30 days to one year in jail;
- Revocation of a driver’s license up to two years’ time; and
- Annual fee for three years in order to reinstate a driver’s lost license (surcharge).
If a person is convicted of a third DWI offense, the penalties increase to:
- A fine of $10,000;
- 2 to 10 years in prison, may be able to get probation;
- Revocation of a driver’s license (up to two years);
- Annual fee for three years in order to retain driver’s license; and
- A Felony conviction.
In most if not all cases, drivers will be required to install interlock ignition or deep lung devices in order to operate their vehicles.
Working with an Experienced Texas DWI Attorney
Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense, and doing so, especially a second or third time, can have life-altering consequences. Not only may you face serious criminal penalties, but drivers who have prior DWI convictions are over-represented as drinking drivers in fatal crashes, meaning that those who are repeat offenders have a substantially higher risk of being involved in a crash.
At the law offices of Brent D. Bowen, Attorney at Law, our experienced Texas drunk driving and criminal defense attorney knows how much is on the line when you are facing subsequent DWI charges. To learn more about your options and how you can best defend yourself against charges, please contact our law offices today online or by phone for a free consultation. We work hard for you.
