Driving while intoxicated carries serious consequences in Texas. Having a child in the car during a DWI incident can elevate these penalties.
Understanding how having a child in the car affects DWI penalties helps those facing these charges comprehend the severity of the consequences in such cases.
Possible child endangerment penalties
The heightened penalties for DWI offenses involving child passengers emphasize the state’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of minors. Offenders can face traditional penalties associated with a DWI. They can also face additional charges related to child endangerment, which can further intensify the legal ramifications.
The Texas Department of Transportation notes that motorists may face child endangerment charges if they have passengers under 15 in the car at the time of their arrests. The penalties for such an offense may include higher fines, extended license suspensions and more substantial jail sentences compared to DWI cases without a child present.
Other repercussions
Those convicted of DWI with a child in the car may experience long-lasting consequences beyond immediate legal penalties. The social stigma associated with endangering a child’s safety can affect personal and professional relationships. The presence of a child during a DWI incident may also impact child custody arrangements and visitation rights in family court proceedings.
Having a child in the car during a DWI arrest can lead to legal, professional and personal repercussions. The serious nature of these ramifications highlights the importance of making responsible choices when consuming alcohol and prioritizing the safety of children on the road.
