Safety during the year-end season is a priority for authorities in our region. Each year, as the New Year’s celebration approaches, campaigns raising awareness about the dangers and consequences of drinking and driving begin to be reinforced. It is well known that most of us attend year-end parties, but we must recognize that we have the responsibility to drive sober.
“One of our major concerns this time of year is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” states a press release from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
And indeed, according to this county agency, by the end of November, the Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs (DWI) Unit had made 571 arrests related to this offense, each of which represents a dangerous situation that was stopped before it could become a tragedy.
That is why the sheriff and his deputies will join a multi-agency initiative on New Year’s Eve, and the officers will continue with intensified surveillance efforts across the county.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reminds us that in Texas, a person is legally intoxicated when their blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but it is a violation as soon as drugs or alcohol affect the ability to drive a vehicle, pilot an aircraft, or operate a vessel.
Up to 180 days in jail in the event of a conviction, with three days of mandatory compliance.
Loss of driving privileges for up to one year.
First-time penalties for those convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can rise to a fine of up to $2,000, a sentence of up to 180 days in jail, and suspension of the driving license for up to one year. If caught a second time, the fine can go up to $4,000, up to twelve months of imprisonment upon conviction, and loss of driving privileges for up to two years.
“Mixing alcohol and driving is a bad combination, but it is very easy to avoid an incident; in three steps we suggest how to prevent it,” says the Houston Police Department.
Recommendations for a Safe Celebration:
Step number one: If you decide to drink, do so in moderation; in Texas the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. For most adults, between 2 to 4 drinks in an hour will bring you to that limit.
Step number two: Always have a sober designated driver; this person can be a friend or family member. You can also use a transportation service to ensure you arrive home safely.
Step number three: Make a plan before you start drinking, so you won’t have to get behind the wheel and put yourself and others on the streets at risk.
