New Texas DWI Law Allows for Ignition Interlock Option
Posted on Mar 29, 2016 11:16am PDT
Texas motorists are feeling the effects of a new DWI law passed back in September which lets those convicted continue to drive with some limitations. The new law permits anyone convicted of DWI who had a blood alcohol content of less than 0.15 to continue driving so long as they install an ignition interlock system in their vehicle.
Prior to this law, those convicted of DWI were subjected to a suspension of their driver's license, although judges had the discretion to grant exceptions to this. Now, by submitting to having an ignition interlock device installed, the convicted may still go to work or take their children to school.
State Representative Jason Villalba, who helped in drafting the law acknowledged that "people that were being convicted below 0.15 were driving anyway—even with a suspended license."
Villalba went on to admit that those with blood alcohol levels of more than 0.15 had previously been forced to obtain an ignition interlock device.
At the same time, drivers now have the option to have their license suspended rather than pay for the installation of an ignition interlock. Villalba explained, "You can say, 'I don't want any of these things, government. I don't want anyone watching what I'm doing. I want to be under a hard suspension."
Mothers Against Drunk Driving has been pushing for new ignition interlock requirement for a decade, which it had accomplished in half of the country, and reportedly was pleased with the new measures.
The law had passed the State House and Senate almost unanimously last summer and was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.
If you have been charged with DWI, call on a Collin County DWI attorney from my firm to fight back and protect your driving privileges and your record. I understand how DWI charges work and push back against the prosecution's case against you.