This Thanksgiving, a Texas DWI Could Cost You More Than You Think

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year in Texas, and it’s also a time when law enforcement places a strong emphasis on stopping impaired driving. A DWI charge in Texas already carries steep legal and financial consequences, and getting one during the holidays can make an already stressful situation even worse. As families hit the road for celebrations, officials continue reminding drivers that a safe ride home is far cheaper and far safer than the cost of a DWI.

Read More: Tips For Staying Sober During The Holidays In Lubbock

Why Thanksgiving Weekend Sees More DWI Patrols

During the holidays, law enforcement in Texas increases DWI patrols and even sets up checkpoints to help drivers stay safe on the road. Between one too many glass of wine with dinner, to partying with old friends at your hometown bar, there are somply more impaired people on the road. Combine that with the potential for weather-stricken roads, and you have a deadly combination.

What a DWI Legally Costs in Texas

Even a first offense can cost a whopping $17,000, according to soberrides.com. This total includes punishment fines, attorney costs, education fees, bail, etc. It doesn't include missed work, which could drive the cost even higher, especially if you work at a job that will fire you over it. It could even cost you the ability to get another job, rent property, and it can affect a child custody hearing. In other words, the consequences are quite grave and can reach into many areas of your life, even if you don't wreck your car, hurt yourself, or hurt someone else. The most severe consequence is intoxication manslaughter, which can cost you up to 99 years of your life.

Read More: Texans Are Way More Sober-Curious Than You Thought

Safe Options for Thanksgiving Travelers

There are many options for safe and sober rides. With apps like Uber and Lyft, there really is no excuse. Yes, there may be surge pricing, but even a hefty Uber cost is much cheaper than $17,000. If you plan ahead a bit, it can be free or cheap to travel and still imbibe, by bringing your saintly sober friend, taking advantage of free/low-cost ride services that are sometimes available on holidays, or by staying the night at a friend's house if that's where you are drinking.

Thanksgiving should be a time for celebration, not legal trouble. A DWI in Texas carries serious financial, legal, and personal consequences that last long after the holiday is over. Planning ahead and choosing a safe ride home is always the better option.